The recent Riyadh International Book Fair in Saudi Arabia showcased a vibrant display of Chinese literature, serving as a cultural bridge between China and the Arab world. Under the theme “Reading in Riyadh,” this year’s fair attracted more than 2,000 publishers from over 30 countries, making it one of the most influential book fairs in the Arab nations.
Prominent Chinese publishing houses, including the Five Continents Publishing Company and the Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press, participated in the event, presenting a wide range of literary activities aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and cultural exchanges between China and the Arab countries.
Chinese publishing institutions organized three specialized exhibition areas: a showcase of premium Chinese-themed books, a section for bilingual Chinese-Arabic translations, and a cultural experience zone featuring unique Chinese creative works. Attendees could explore and purchase over 1,000 books in Chinese, Arabic, and English, drawing the attention of numerous local readers.
Ragda, a staff member from an educational institution in Riyadh, noted, “Many Saudis are currently learning Chinese, and books on Chinese language and culture are becoming increasingly popular. My friends and I bought a lot of Chinese books at the fair.” Amr Mogis, a representative from the Egyptian Hikmat Cultural Industries Group, emphasized the growing enthusiasm in Arab countries for learning Chinese and expressed that the demand for Chinese books is on the rise, highlighting the importance of mutual translation as a means to foster better understanding and cultural exchange.
In addition to the extensive book displays, the Chinese exhibitors organized various cultural exchange activities. The “Sino-Saudi Literary Salon” featured contemporary writers and scholars from both nations who explored the historical ties of literary exchange and envisioned future cultural interactions. This event was co-hosted by the Five Continents Publishing Company, the Sinopec Middle East Representative Office, the Confucius Institute at Prince Sultan University, and the university itself.
Xu Zechen, a representative of Chinese authors at the event, remarked, “Literary works carry significant cultural power that transcends borders and resonates universally.” He added that dialogue and communication between writers from China and Saudi Arabia would deepen mutual understanding and friendship. Professor Emira Zaharani from Prince Sultan University highlighted the rich literary traditions and cultural heritage of both nations and expressed that literary dialogue could enhance mutual friendship and trust.
Currently, exchanges and cooperation in the humanities between China and Saudi Arabia continue to expand, with grassroots interactions becoming increasingly close. Guan Hong, the deputy general manager of the Five Continents Publishing Company, stated that the organization has long been dedicated to promoting deep exchanges and cooperation in the book publishing sector between the two countries, using literature as a medium to build a bridge for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Abdul Aziz Al-Shabani, a researcher at the Riyadh Political and Strategic Studies Center, noted that cultural exchanges are crucial for fostering mutual affection between peoples. He pointed out that friendly cooperation across various fields is advancing rapidly, with an increasing number of Saudis developing an appreciation for Chinese culture, and he looks forward to elevated collaborations in cultural exchanges between the two nations.