Algerian book exhibition strikes back against Paris Book Fair

The Algerian publishers’ Union in collaboration with the National Library has deliberately decided to organize the 7th edition of the national book exhibition slated as from 13 through 18 of March which coincides with the 28th edition of Paris International Book Fair.This big cultural event was boycotted by Arab countries and some European ones alike for having invited Israelth anniversary of the establishment of the Hebraic state. on the occasion of the 60

In a press call yesterday held at the National Library, the head of the national publisher’s union, Mohammed Tahar Guerfi declared to “Echourouk” that the organizers designated Palestine as an honorary guest in this exhibition, to show the solidarity of the Algerian people to this bleeding nation.

On the sidelines of the exhibition, several seminars and cultural forums dedicated to Palestine have been scheduled.

For his part, the head of the National Library, Lamine Zaoui declared that both the institution he leads and the union were not aware that the organizers of Paris International Book Fair would celebrate the 60th anniversary of Israel, when they decided to take part in this event.

M Zaoui added that as soon as they knew the news they took the decision to boycott the fair as a gesture of solidarity for Palestine.

The national book exhibition will bring together some 60 participants including publishers and distributors. 3000 titles are exhibited in this cultural event, the attraction will be a book on the Algerian president entitled “ Bouteflika:  a war for Algeria, the Meridian and Peace”.