Kamran Ashraf
The formation of Syria’s new government has marked the beginning of a visible shift in national priorities, with education and culture emerging as key pillars of the leadership’s vision. This direction was clearly reflected in Damascus with the launch of the country’s first International Book Fair, an event that signaled a renewed focus on knowledge, intellectual exchange, and cultural revival.
The opening of the book fair was attended by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, whose presence gave the event strong political and symbolic significance. By personally endorsing a major cultural gathering, the president underscored the new government’s commitment to rebuilding society through education, learning, and dialogue. The fair was organized under the supervision of the Syrian Ministry of Culture, led by Minister Mohammad Yassin Saleh, who described the event as a step toward restoring Damascus’s historical role as a center of learning and scholarship.
Regional engagement further strengthened the message. Saudi Arabia participated as an honorary guest, represented by Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan. During his visit, the Saudi minister held meetings with his Syrian counterpart, focusing on strengthening cultural relations and expanding cooperation in publishing, translation, arts, and heritage preservation. The Saudi delegation also included senior officials such as Royal Court Adviser Mohammad bin Mazeed Al-Tuwijri and Deputy Minister of Culture Hamed bin Fayez, highlighting the importance Riyadh attached to the cultural dimension of regional relations.
Beyond official meetings, the fair attracted large numbers of students, academics, writers, publishers, and families. Exhibition halls were filled with visitors browsing books in Arabic and other languages, attending literary discussions, and engaging with regional and international publishers. For many young Syrians, the event offered rare access to educational material and contemporary ideas, reinforcing the role of books as a foundation for learning and critical thinking.
Historically, Damascus has been one of the world’s oldest cities associated with scholarship, libraries, and intellectual life. The revival of a large-scale international book fair under the new government carries strong symbolic meaning, suggesting an effort to reconnect with that legacy while adapting to modern cultural realities.
Taken together, the active involvement of President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, the Syrian Ministry of Culture, and visiting regional leaders reflects a broader vision in which education and culture are central to national renewal. The Damascus International Book Fair stands not only as a literary event, but as an early indicator that the new leadership sees investment in knowledge and cultural openness as essential to shaping Syria’s future.
