BAGHDAD, May 24 (NNN-NINA) – The ongoing 23rd edition of the International Book Fair, held in the Iraqi capital Baghdad, was suspended yesterday due to a strong dust storm.
The book fair, which kicked off on May 19, has attracted more than 100 local and foreign exhibitors, with publishing houses from 21 countries, according to Alaa Hassan, from the exhibition media office.
The fair has witnessed a good turnout, as many Iraqis believe it is a good opportunity to obtain suitable books from various sources.
Many artistic and cultural events, in addition to seminars in various fields, were also held during the book fair with the participation of cultural, art, and political figures.
To compensate for the suspension yesterday, the exhibition will extend to May 29, instead of May 28, said Hassan.
Adel al-Ghurairi, a lecturer at the College of Media, at Baghdad University, said, the book fair is a means to enrich the cultural movement in Iraq, that enhances the habit of reading among people.
Yesterday’s dust storm was one of the heaviest sandstorms that hit Iraq, as a result of climatic changes, lack of vegetation cover, and rapid desertification.– NNN-NINA
