Dr Hamad Abdulaziz al-Kuwari (C) Doha - Arab Today Under the patronage of HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani , the 24th Doha International Book Fair was opened this evening at the Doha Exhibition Center with participation of 360 publishers from 29 Arab and foreign countries , and in the presence of many personalities Arab and foreign intellectuals , writers, poets, members of the diplomatic corps as well as those interested in cultural affairs in the state. The 24th Doha International Book Fair runs until 14 December. HE Minister of Culture , Arts and Heritage Dr. Hamad Abdulaziz Al Kuwari said in a press statement during the opening ceremony of Fair , that the patronage of HH the Emir of the Book Fair is a tribute to the book and the culture in general, and cast the responsibility to provide a cultural event worthy of the name of the State of Qatar culturally , especially that the Book Fair comes as part of the celebrations of the country 's National Day on December. 18 , noting that the 24th edition of the Book Fair comes after a cumulative experience of organizing such cultural events over the years , which is considered a prelude to its silver jubilee celebration next year . HE the Minister praised Qatar's initiative of holding cultural ties with various countries, referring Qatar -Japan festive last year where an important aspect of Japanese culture were revealed to the audience , and this year's celebration will witness Qatar UK 2013 which provides an opportunity for the public to get to know the culture of the two peoples, where there is a cultural program and the activities of English accompanies in addition to displaying a range of British titles which meet the need of the reader who wants to recognize the most important products of minds in the West. " HE the Minister added that the Book Fair is a significant opportunity for establishing a cultural and civilization dialogue among nations. HE Dr Al Kuwari toured the various pavilions of the Book Fair where he was briefed on the publishing houses and the actors involved . Source: QNA