Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 30 August (BelTA) – The national book publishing is one of Belarus' calling cards abroad, Belarus’ Information Minister Lilia Ananich told the media, BelTA has learned.

The minister believes that the modern Belarus continues the traditions of first printer Francysk Skaryna. The achievements of Belarusian publishers are recognized abroad. “National book is our treasure and our calling card,” Lilia Ananich said. The edition “The World Heritage of Francysk Skaryna” has been awarded the Grand Prix of the CIS international contest “The Art of Book”. This year the Belarusian books have been exhibited at international shows in Kazakhstan, China and France and will go on display in Germany, Russia, and Serbia.

There are more than 500 publishing organizations in the country. The state supports the publication of socially important books. Over 4,500 book titles with a total circulation of nearly 10 million copies were published in Belarus in the first half of the year. The minister drew attention to the fact that 560 books were published in the Belarusian language. Their share in the total circulation has exceeded 23%. By comparison, it was about 17% in 2016.

The achievements of the Belarusian book publishing will be on full display during the Belarusian Written Language Day in Polotsk on 1-3 September. The main themes will be the 1155th anniversary of Polotsk and the 500th anniversary of the Belarusian book printing. The program will include an international roundtable of Belarusian and foreign writers, the National Literary Awards ceremony, the festival of books and printed press, conferences and exhibitions.

Lilia Ananich noted that foreign countries are showing a big interest in the Belarusian Written Language Day in Polotsk. “Twelve countries are sending delegations of writers, scientists and librarians to help us celebrate the Belarusian Written Language Day,” she said. A great number of diplomats have expressed their intention to take part in the celebrations as well.