8th Istanbul Publishing Fellowship Begins
The Istanbul Publishing Fellowship, supported by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and held under the patronage of the Istanbul Governorship, officially commenced with its opening ceremony at the Rami Library. During the ceremony, Ahmet Misbah Demircan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, highlighted the importance of cultural heritage, emphasizing that tangible and intangible heritage are both crucial components. He emphasized the significance of preserving historical sites like the Rami Library, which represents a blend of Ottoman-era military infrastructure and modernization.
Mehmet Burhan Genç, President of the Turkish Press and Publishers Copyright & Licensing Society (TBYM), underscored the heartfelt nature of publishing, stating that publishing is a labor of love that conveys messages from the heart. He described books as carriers of words, with publishers serving as the conduit to bring these words to people worldwide. Genç emphasized that the Istanbul Publishing Fellowship serves as a unique platform for connecting publishers on both national and international scales.
The event, attended by publishers from around the world, was seen as an opportunity to facilitate rapid exchanges in literary copyrights, especially regarding translated works. This year, Uzbekistan was chosen as the "Focus Country," further strengthening cultural bonds. The event also marked the handover of the "Focus Country" status for 2024 to Mexico, represented by Hugo Setzer, President of the Mexican Publishers Association.
The Istanbul Publishing Fellowship, which seeks to establish Istanbul as a global hub in the publishing industry, attracted 410 publishers from 66 countries, including 214 physically present and 196 online participants. Special sessions focusing on Uzbekistan and various cultural activities are scheduled throughout the program, which runs until June 8, 2023.
Full News: https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/kultur/8-istanbul-publishing-fellowship-program-basladi/2915572