Amman: Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II, Minister of Culture Mustafa Rawashdeh inaugurated the 24th Amman International Book Fair 2025, in the presence of Omani Minister of Information Dr. Abdullah Al-Harrasi. The fair, which will run through October 4, is organized by the Jordanian Publishers Association (JPA) at the Jordan International Exhibition Center - Mecca Mall, with 400 publishing houses from 22 Arab and foreign countries participating.
According to Jordan News Agency, the event is themed "Jerusalem, the Capital of Palestine," underlining Jerusalem's importance at the pan-Arab level and affirming its Arab identity. This theme aligns with Jordan's stance, reiterating the Hashemite Custodianship over the city's Islamic and Christian sanctities.
During the opening ceremony, Rawashdeh mentioned that the Sultanate of Oman is the guest of honor this year due to its significant documentary and historical contributions, enriching Arabic content in science and knowledge. He emphasized that Oman's participation adds an essential dimension to the cultural relations between Jordan and Oman.
The book fair is considered a vital part of the creative cultural industries, reflecting His Majesty King Abdullah II's vision to strengthen Jordan's cultural economy and transition towards digitalization while balancing heritage with modernity. Rawashdeh also highlighted Hashemite values of tolerance, partnership, and diversity, providing cooperation opportunities with various institutions, including the strategic partnership with the Jordanian Publishers Association.
Omani Ambassador to Jordan, Sheikh Fahad Al-Ajili, conveyed greetings from Oman's Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, His Highness Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, and expressed pride in Oman's invitation as the guest of honor. The ambassador noted the fair's prestigious position among Arab and international book exhibitions, serving as a cultural and civilizational forum attracting prominent publishers and intellectuals worldwide.
The ambassador also highlighted that the Sultanate's participation reflects the depth of historic bilateral ties between Oman and Jordan.