Diyarbakir book fair returns after 4-year hiatus

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey - The annual book fair has returned to Diyarbakir in Turkey’s Kurdish-majority southeast after a four-year hiatus due to an economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Of 127 publishing houses taking part in the fair, 27 of them are Kurdish.

“Relationships are established between Kurdish readers and Kurdish writers," author Ayhan Geveri told Rudaw earlier this week.

"As a writer and academic, this place is a source of pride for both me and the readers. As a reader of Kurdish literature, this makes me very happy,” Geveri added.

The eight-day fair, which ends on December 24, includes panel discussions, seminars, and book signings by famous writers.

Book lovers have come to the exhibition from across Turkey, looking for their favorite titles. Many Kurds who want to improve their proficiency in their mother tongue have also visited.

According to exhibition organizers, more than 350 Turkish and Kurdish writers were invited.

The exhibition is held under the auspices of the Diyarbakir Chamber of Commerce.