Amman: The Sultanate of Oman has been honored as the Guest of Honor at the 24th Amman International Book Fair, which commenced its activities in the Jordanian capital today. Oman's delegation is led by Dr. Abdullah Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information.
According to Oman News Agency, the Minister of Information expressed gratitude to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and its Ministry of Culture for hosting Oman as the Guest of Honor. He emphasized the significance of this recognition as a tribute to Omani culture and its contributions across various fields of thought, writing, literature, and creativity. Dr. Al Harrasi highlighted Oman's pivotal role in reinforcing Arab identity through its historical knowledge and contribution to the development of Arab culture in areas such as language, astronomy, and medicine.
Dr. Al Harrasi pointed out shared interests between Oman and Jordan in the role of culture and knowledge in building both national and pan-Arab identity. He noted that this identity faces challenges approaching an existential nature, exacerbated by contemporary technology's impact on the nature, value, and meaning of civilizational identity. These challenges affect not just Arab culture but extend to human culture and identity globally.
The Minister stated that the Arab bloc faces complex challenges affecting the Arab identity as a civilizational entity in the region. He affirmed that the Palestinian cause and Al Quds encapsulate these challenges, reflecting Arab culture's strength and resilience. Despite existential threats, he expressed optimism for a better future through adherence to civilizational principles and authentic Arab identity.
He also highlighted the role of culture, thinkers, writers, artists, and creators in renewing steadfastness and showcasing the pulse of the nation and its peoples. Dr. Al Harrasi concluded that the book fair is not just about books but represents the determination of minds and hearts against existential threats to Arab civilization and culture.
Mustafa Al Rawashdeh, Jordanian Minister of Culture, praised Oman for its documented heritage in various sciences and its role in enriching Arab content. He noted that Oman's participation as Guest of Honor strengthens cultural relations with Jordan and represents a significant milestone.
Sheikh Fahad Abdulrahman Al Ojaili, Oman's Ambassador to Jordan, stated that Oman's participation signifies the deep historical ties and strong relations between the two countries, promoting creative cultural exchange and affirming culture's role in strengthening bonds of brotherhood.
Mohammed Rashad, President of the Arab Publishers Association, noted that Oman's presence allows the public to learn about its civilization and cultural life. He highlighted the Amman International Book Fair as a genuine opportunity for cultural and intellectual connection.
Jabr Abu Fares, President of the Jordanian Publishers Association, affirmed that hosting Oman enriches the fair with its intellectual achievements and cultural heritage. He noted that the Amman International Book Fair is a prominent cultural event in Jordan and the Arab region, promoting cultural dialogue and celebrating the written word.
The Ministers of Information and Culture toured the Omani pavilion, which features Omani intellectual output, e-books, audiobooks, Augmented Reality (AR) and hologram technology, and an exhibition of Omani documents and manuscripts.
The 24th Amman International Book Fair features 400 publishing houses from 22 Arab and foreign countries, with a cultural program including seminars, dialogue sessions, poetry and storytelling evenings, and a creative writing workshop.