Shahd Alhamdan
Saudi Gazette
RIYADH — Several Greek academics and writers dwelt at length on the cultural and historical importance of Greece during Riyadh’s International Book Fair here that will end on March.19.
Some of the speeches during a panel discussion at the Greek stall touched upon the topic of cultural ties between Greeks and Arabs. A speaker also highlighted the importance of cultural activities during the crisis times.
Ilias Andronikos Klouvatos, deputy head of the mission and Consul of the Greece Embassy in Saudi Arabia, said that the editions presented in the Greece stall cover ancient Greek literature to modern Greek cuisine, and everything in between.
He explained that although the Saudi public has a good idea about Greece, being part of the book fair is still an opportunity to showcase several aspects about the country, including modern Greek literature.
“This is a cultural event and we see it as a way to further strengthen our cultural ties. However, our guests will be able to find information about several places they can visit in Greece and even taste some Greek products,” he added.
Visitors to the Greek booth can find many books that present the great figures of the Greek poetry and literature. The visitors can also have a chance to find Greek books translated into Arabic.
“Most visitors like our stall and the items on display. They also have a very friendly attitude toward our country and our people,” Klouvatos said.
Talking about his country being chosen as the guest of honor at the book fair, he said it was a great honor for them from the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Information.
“The honor was enormous for the Greek ministries of foreign affairs and culture and us. We have been coordinating closely with our Saudi partners for the last few months, in order to have the best result possible,” Klouvatos said.
“I am astonished by the interest shown for the culture of my country in Saudi Arabia. Our cultures have a lot of commonality,” he added.
