JEDDAH: More than 1,000 local, Arab and international publishing houses are displaying their products at the fifth Jeddah Book Fair launched on Thursday by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission under the slogan “Ports of Culture.”
The event, being held at Jeddah Superdome until Dec. 16, includes seminars, panel discussions, poetry readings, and workshops on the publication of comics and Japanese manga.
The inaugural day commenced with the attendance of France’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ludovic Pouille, who is leading a delegation from his country.
Pouille told Arab News: “It is a momentous occasion as the French pavilion is taking part for the first time at the Jeddah fair, and France is the exclusive participant with a dedicated pavilion, making it a tremendous honor and source of immense pleasure for me.”
According to Pouille, the French pavilion will have 15,000 titles from the nation’s biggest publishing houses.
During his visit, Pouille had the chance to engage with 12 Saudi students from King Abdulaziz University’s French language department.
France’s pavilion offers daily language courses for free.
Larry Lamartiniere, the director of Alliance Francaise in Jeddah, told Arab News: “France is very famous for its book culture. We at the Jeddah book fair offer daily courses for kids, teenagers, and adults from 5 to 7 p.m. at the pavilion. It is a chance to learn and explore more about the culture and the language.”
Pouille added: “People will learn French, read French because, at the end of the day, I’m a true believer in the dialogue of culture, and in the diversity, and what better symbol to diversity than the French pavilion here in the heart of the Jeddah book fair.”
Commenting on the role of reading in society, Pouille said: “I think that books today are more important than ever. Everybody is on the screen. Everybody is on the phone, taking a book, taking the time to read, either a kid or an adult. It’s absolutely essential. It brings you wisdom. It brings you knowledge, brings you openness. You need to read. That’s my message today to everybody.”
Leading French author Olivier Rolin is scheduled to have a book signing on Dec. 10.
To support independent, self-published writers, the commission has set up a corner called “Saudi Author,” which provides an opportunity to explore over 100 titles.
ROSHN, a PIF-owned giga-project and real estate developer, is a sponsor of this year’s edition of the fair.
ROSHN’s Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Ghada Alrumayan told Arab News: “The exhibition represents one of the ongoing efforts of ROSHN to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families through various means, including increasing knowledge, transferring cultures, opening avenues for research and innovation for society, and contributing to achieving the targets of Vision 2030.”
Children are offered edutainment activities through shows, theater, puppet workshops, and a writing and sensory play area.
Workshops on fashion, cooking, music, comic book creation, stop-motion and animation are also scheduled with local and international experts.
The manga and anime area at the fair has numerous interactive activities with several publishing houses selling books and collectibles.
Mohammed AlGasimi, organizer of the section, said 26 manga publishing houses, primarily from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Britain, are participating. The manga section features statues of iconic anime figures including Satoru Gojo from Jujutsu Kaisen and Naruto Uzumaki.
The Heritage Commission offers visitors a micro exhibition to explore the nation’s history. The “Year of Arab Poetry 2023” initiative is also present at the fair through various platforms.
The Jeddah Book Fair is the third such gathering organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission this year, following Madinah in June and Riyadh in September.
The fair is open from 11:00 a.m. to midnight, except on Fridays, when it opens from 2 p.m. until midnight.
Jeddah’s fifth book fair sees 1,000 publishers participate
https://arab.news/pr67y
Jeddah’s fifth book fair sees 1,000 publishers participate
- Features seminars, poetry readings, workshops on Japanese manga
- France’s first participation an ‘honor,’ says ambassador Ludovic Pouille
Saudi arts and culture association hosts captivating ‘Ready for Display’ show
- Exhibition showcases impressive collection of works from 47 artists, reflecting rich diversity of styles and artistic approaches
DAMMAM: The Saudi Arabian Society for Arts and Culture in Dammam began cultural programs with the seventh “Ready for Display” exhibition, showcasing works from 47 artists, including participants from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Syria, the Philippines, India and Pakistan.
The exhibition aims to highlight a range of artistic styles, techniques and approaches while reflecting the beauty and essence of the local environment.
Running from Nov. 1 to Nov. 10, the show provides an important platform for local and resident artists.
Each artist brings their individual approach to the canvas, with some embracing abstraction while others focus on realistic representations.
Their works captured a variety of subjects, including people, places, animals and shapes, highlighting the rich diversity of artistic expression and individual creativity.
Artists display various mediums, with some using stretched canvas while others experiment with materials such as wood panels and clay, adding distinctive textures and dimensions.
This blend of techniques and media invites viewers to recognize the interconnectedness of art and cultural identity worldwide.
Visitors can appreciate how elements from the land and sea bring life to the displayed artworks’ color palettes and artistic designs.
The still-life drawings also showcase the artists’ attention to detail and innovative creative abilities.
Yousef Al-Harbi, director of the association’s branch in Dammam, said that such exhibitions helped visitors to “gain a deeper understanding of their history and identity,” fostering a sense of pride.
The event has drawn significant interest, with the selection committee receiving 167 submissions from 98 artists, ultimately selecting 47 artworks for display, each representing different schools of thought and techniques in the art world.
In addition, the exhibition featured interactive events, including a workshop on acrylic painting on Nov. 2 and a live painting session on Nov. 3.
Al-Harbi highlighted the association’s broader impact, saying: “In the past four months, we have delivered 38 training workshops, held eight art exhibitions and presented 21 theatrical performances,” aiming to establish the Eastern Province as a center of artistic creativity.
The association is dedicated to nurturing local talent in harmony with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on cultural identity and sustainable development.
Indonesian-Saudi ties to grow under new government, ambassador says
- Abdulaziz Ahmad highlights Jakarta’s commitment to Middle East peace, new trade ties with the Kingdom
RIYADH: Indonesia’s “alliance” with Saudi Arabia will continue to grow under new president Prabowo Subianto, Jakarta’s ambassador to the Kingdom has told Arab News.
Speaking at a diplomatic reception to celebrate 79 years of independence and longstanding Indonesian-Saudi Arabia ties, Abdulaziz Ahmad highlighted the importance of the growing bilateral relationship, reflecting on recent milestones achieved by both countries.
“Last October, during the historic visit of Indonesia’s former president Joko Widodo, we signed four crucial memorandums of understanding — on the Supreme Coordination Council, halal products, sports and youth cooperation, and technical standards,” he said.
“These agreements are paving the way for a stronger, mutually beneficial alliance that supports both our countries’ development goals.”
The ambassador praised the peaceful transition in Indonesia’s government under President Subianto last month.
He expressed confidence in the future of Indonesian-Saudi relations: “With this new administration, the ties between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia will continue to grow, fostering deeper economic and cultural cooperation.”
Reflecting on the steady growth in trade between the two countries, the ambassador highlighted the significance of Indonesia’s increasing export footprint in Saudi Arabia.
“In 2023, trade between our countries surged to $6.15 billion, marking a 10.81 percent rise since 2019. By August this year, our trade had grown by an impressive 17.32 percent compared to the same period last year,” he said.
“This momentum speaks to the strength of our partnership and the quality of Indonesian exports, particularly in non-oil sectors like palm oil, processed foods and agriculture, which are increasingly meeting the needs of Saudi consumers. Our collaboration emphasizes sustainability and community-based production, aligning well with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”
He added that Indonesia is committed to peace in the Middle East, strongly condemning the Israeli aggression in Gaza and advocating for humanitarian access and support for Palestinians, in line with international law and UN resolutions.
Ahmad concluded his remarks by extending Indonesia’s appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their support of Indonesians living in Saudi Arabia, and for the enduring friendship between both countries.
The Indonesian Embassy hosted the reception at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.
About 500 distinguished guests attended, including diplomats, Saudi officials and business leaders, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia and its growing ties with the Kingdom.
The evening featured cultural presentations, including a remo dance from East Java, the harmonious sounds of a Central Javanese gamelan and captivating performances by Indonesian vocalists.
Guests enjoyed a showcase of batik textiles from across Indonesia’s archipelago and were served an array of traditional Indonesian dishes.
Undersecretary for the Riyadh Region Dr. Faisal Al-Sudairi joined the Indonesian ambassador in commemorating the special occasion as a guest of honor.
Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy
RIYADH: As he prepares to leave Saudi Arabia, Japan’s ambassador to the Kingdom, Iwai Fumio, affectionately known as “Abu Kuji” among his Saudi friends, reflects on the sweeping transformations he witnessed during his tenure.
“Saudi Arabia feels like a second home,” he said.
“The connection I feel to this country and its people is truly unique,” Iwai added.
Under the ambitious Vision 2030 framework, he observed the Kingdom evolving at an unprecedented pace, blending progress with the preservation of its cultural legacy.
“Vision 2030 isn’t just about change — it’s a complete reimagining of what Saudi Arabia can be,” he said, emphasizing how the initiative reshaped the Kingdom’s economy and expanded its influence.
As Saudi Arabia emerged as a regional hub, attracting investment and establishing global partnerships, the ambassador noted the Kingdom’s growing role on the world stage.
From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the awe-inspiring landscapes of AlUla and the towering peaks of Asir, he has seen firsthand the beauty and spirit of a nation embracing change while honoring its heritage.
“Each place tells a story of resilience and pride,” he said, noting how the Kingdom’s diverse regions reflect the harmony of tradition and progress.
Iwai spoke with deep appreciation of the hospitality he encountered throughout his time in Saudi Arabia. “The warmth here is unmatched,” he said, recalling how Saudis welcomed him not just as a diplomat but as part of their extended community.
The title “Abu Kuji” itself, bestowed upon him by his Saudi friends, symbolizes a personal connection and affection that goes beyond formal diplomacy.
“There is a sincerity here, a tradition of openness and generosity that is incredibly touching,” he remarked. “It’s rare to find such genuine warmth in the world.”
The ambassador also praised the Arab News Japanese edition, a key initiative fostering closer ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan.
He acknowledged the publication’s vital role in promoting mutual understanding, enabling Japanese readers to appreciate the breadth and depth of Saudi Arabia’s transformation.
“Arab News Japan has allowed people back home to witness this journey of growth and ambition,” he said. “It has been instrumental in bridging our cultures and deepening the friendship between our nations.”
Reflecting on his years in Saudi Arabia, he expressed admiration for the rapid advancements in technology, infrastructure and economic diversification under Vision 2030.
From newly developed hotels and infrastructure projects to the ease of new digital visa services, he noted the strides the Kingdom has made to attract international businesses and tourists alike.
“These developments show Saudi Arabia’s readiness to welcome the world,” he said.
The ambassador highlighted how Japan, with its experience and technological expertise, is well positioned to collaborate with Saudi Arabia on these fronts.
Yet beyond the visible changes, it is the people and their shared pride in tradition that left the most indelible mark on him. From experiencing the energy of Saudi cities to the tranquil beauty of its historical sites, the ambassador described his journey through the Kingdom as transformative on a personal level.
“It’s not just the landscapes or the cities,” he said, “but the people, their warmth, their traditions — these are the true treasures of Saudi Arabia.”
As he bid farewell, Iwai voiced optimism for a future of strengthened collaboration, particularly in fields such as energy, technology, and cultural exchange, where Japan’s expertise aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goals under Vision 2030.
He leaves with a sense of gratitude and hope, confident that the friendship between Saudi Arabia and Japan will continue to deepen.
Reflecting on his next chapter, the ambassador shared his excitement for his upcoming assignment in Egypt, a country he believes will offer new opportunities to deepen Japan’s ties in the region.
“Each country has its unique story and path, and I am grateful for the opportunity to carry forward the spirit of partnership I’ve cherished here in Saudi Arabia,” he said.
“Saudi Arabia will always hold a special place in my heart,” he added, “for the incredible transformations I witnessed, but most of all, for the friendships and warmth of its people, who welcomed me like family.”
Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor
- Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met with the French president’s advisor for the Middle East and North Africa region, Anne-Claire Legendre, this week.
Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.
They also reviewed regional issues, with a particular focus on Gaza and Lebanon and ongoing efforts to address the issues there.
KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership
- KSrelief implement sanitation project in Yemen’s Marib governorate
RIYADH: The advisor to the Royal Court and supervisor general of the Kingdom’s aid agency, KSrelief, met with the Palestinian education minister this week to discuss cooperation on educational projects and programs for schools and universities.
Dr Abdullah Al-Rabeeah and Amjad Barham also talked about ways in which research collaboration between Saudi and Palestinian higher education institutes could be enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.
The Palestinian minister also expressed his gratitude to the Saudi government for the Kingdom’s ongoing support for his people.
Meanwhile, KSrelief has implemented a project to improve sanitation services for internally displaced persons and the host community in Yemen’s Marib governorate, in partnership with the UN International Organization for Migration.
The project entails the construction of 200 new latrines and rehabilitation of 600 sewage pits and will directly benefit 47,598 individuals facing tough living conditions.
