Chinese books draw attention at int'l book fair in Algerian capital

ALGIERS, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- The 27th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair (SILA 2024) is currently underway at the Pin Maritimes Exhibition Center in the Algerian capital Algiers, with Chinese books attracting a large number of young readers eager to explore Chinese culture and language.

"The Chinese collection on display includes books on the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese culture and history, and contemporary China, as well as Chinese language learning materials, which are well-received by Algerian readers," said Liu Ziwei, a Chinese exhibitor.

Liu, also a Ph.D. candidate in Arabic at Beijing Foreign Studies University, expressed to Xinhua enthusiasm about local people's interest in China, noting, "Some Algerians are learning Chinese independently and show strong interest in studying in China."

Algerians' growing interest in Chinese culture reflects the strengthening ties between Algeria and China. The recent launch of a Chinese language department at the University of Algiers II has provided another opportunity for young Algerians to engage with Chinese studies.

Issam Chouiref, a young Algerian teacher and student of Chinese, expressed pride in supporting the fair by exhibiting Chinese books at a booth. "The collection covers diverse fields beyond linguistics. I hope that by the next edition, we'll be able to sell books as there's high demand," the teacher said.

Themed "Read to Triumph," the SILA 2024, running from Nov. 6 to Nov. 16, features 1,007 exhibitors from 40 countries, including seven African nations, and showcases 300,000 titles across an exhibition area of 23,000 square meters.