Hong Kong Book Fair spotlights world literature

The annual book fair opened on Wednesday, with a focus on world literature and culture.

This year's edition showcases more than 200 books and exhibits from around the world, as well as 35 events, including seminars and workshops in collaboration with consulates-general in Hong Kong.

Alejandro Vélez, Vice Consul of Cultural Affairs at the Consulate General of Mexico here said it is important to share her country's culture with the people of Hong Kong.

"It's a great opportunity for us...Hong Kong people can know about Mexico, which is a bit far from Hong Kong. But it gives us the opportunity to show our culture to this part of the world," Vélez said.

"We are promoting four important writers throughout our history and that also showcases, in a way, the culture that Mexico has to offer to the world," Vélez added.

Other participating consulates-general include Colombia, Indonesia, Spain, Bangladesh and Vietnam.

Bookworm Hailey Li, a student, said she enjoyed the variety of literature on display at this year's fair, themed "Reading the World: Cultural Legacy, Joyful Journeys".

"I feel like this year's book fair is more diverse. It shows different cultural aspects, for example, we have booths focused on Hong Kong culture," she said.

The 36th Hong Kong Book Fair runs until July 21 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Edited by Aaron Tam ...