Minister of culture and information Iyad Ameen Madani has highlighted the significance of patronization of Riyadh international book fair by the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, and said that patronization will sparkle the spirit of enthusiasm and open doors wide for new horizons. Madani, in a press statement after opening Riyadh international book fair yesterday, said the fair constitutes an important cultural event for spreading knowledge, and it will positively contribute to enabling the citizens to get acquainted with the world of books. He noted that hosting Japan by the book fair is a pioneering idea, and it will provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the culture of the Japanese society. He highlighted the existing strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Japan in the various domains. 'Without the role of the media in shedding light on any event, the cultural activities would have remained isolated and confined to the elite', Madani said, adding that it is hoped that media will give the required attention to this great event. The minister of culture and information said the show is basically for the book and the problems of the book and publication. He pointed out that the cultural program this year includes so many items including the items that concern the friends in Japan. --more
