Opinions & Interviews

Ananich: Minsk deserves World Book Capital title

MINSK, 1 February (BelTA) – Belarus’ great contribution to the world’s book publishing industry allows Minsk to claim the World Book Capital title in 2017, First Deputy Information Minister of Belarus Lilia Ananich told reporters on 1 February, BelTA has learnt.

The year 2017 will mark the 500th anniversary of the publishing of the first Belarusian-language book by famous Eastern Slavonic enlightener Francysk Skorina. Taking into consideration the great contribution of Belarus to the world’s book publishing industry, Minsk has all reasons to apply for the World Book Capital title in 2017, the First Deputy Information Minister said.

“I know it is very well perceived by partners from the former USSR republics. Belarus has done a lot and is doing a lot for the world’s book publishing industry,” Lilia Ananich said.

She reminded that Belarus remains one of the most reading countries in the post-Soviet space. Almost four books per capita are published in the country. The Minsk International Book Fair attracts a great number of participants. Some 25 countries will take part in this book forum that will be held on 6-10 February. “This demonstrates the interest in Belarus and recognition of its achievements,” Lilia Ananich said.

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