Dubai-based Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRF), which seeks to develop knowledge and human capabilities in the region, organised an open forum for the members of Arab Publishers Association at Frankfurt Book Fair 2009.

The Frankfurt Book fair 2009, which opened on October 14, will end tomorrow (October 18).

The participation in Frankfurt Book Fair is part of MBRF’s strategy to promote its Dubai International Children’s Book Fair, scheduled to be held in February 2010.

The forum highlighted issues related to the developing of publishing industry in the Arab world and promoting reading among Arab children.

Participants put forward a number of ideas to elevate the status of publishing and writing children’s literature in the Arab world.

“The Foundation’s participation in the Frankfurt Book Fair succeeded in drawing significant interest and appreciation from authors, publishers and publishing industry professionals, as well as the general public at large,” said Adel Al Shared, vice-chairman and managing director of MBRF.

The Dubai International Children Book Fair will host events including reading development conference, training sessions & workshops, international trade centre and other activities that aim to support the children’s book publishing industry.

It will also seek to encourage all stakeholders including authors, illustrators, and publishers to stimulate the sector, a statement said. – TradeArabia News Service