One of the central themes of this year’s fair is the 35th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The fair features about 500 exhibitors from 23 countries, including Brazil, Venezuela, Vietnam, Iran, Kazakhstan, Moldova, the UAE and others.

Belarusian First Deputy Information Minister Andrei Kuntsevich noted that the Minsk International Book Fair has become a significant dialogue platform not only for book publishers and writers, but also for all who strive for spirituality, for understanding the processes taking place in the modern world, because the book remains the most important source of enlightenment, new knowledge and spiritual-moral guidelines necessary for the development of our independent state, helps preserve the history of generations’ lives, and fosters a feeling of love for the fatherland and responsibility for its future.

«In our country, we have always had a special, careful and respectful attitude towards the book. Effective development of Belarusian literature and the book industry, based on the best traditions of book printing, is among the main state priorities,» he added.

«Without a doubt, in the year of the 35th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States, the exhibition will become a strong connecting link for effective integration, because the role of the book in the dialogue of cultures is enormous. Important publications from the CIS member states will help us learn more about the history and traditions of our neighbors, and will contribute to strengthening unity and consolidation in the face of new contemporary challenges,» Andrei Kuntsevich emphasized.

In his opinion, it is especially important that the Minsk International Book Fair is taking place during the Year of the Belarusian Women. This is not only a recognition of the achievements of women, but also, first and foremost, a tribute to the invaluable contribution of Belarusian women to society. «In contemporary Belarusian literature, women have secured strong leadership positions. They are successful in prose, poetry, drama, and children’s literature. Their active civic stance, success in international competitions and awards prove that the Belarusian women are the main driver of the literary process, shaping the agenda and nurturing new readers. This is the most important task and function of literature — to preserve and pass on to future generations the most important and best things for which our Belarusian land is famous, and by which it lives,» Andrei Kuntsevich said.