Cape Town - The China-to-Cape book fair aims to unite a community and strengthen the ties between two historically significant nations.
This comes after Loot.co.za and the China International Book Trading Group launched a first-of-its-kind book festival.
The Castle of Good Hope hosted a spectacular opening ceremony yesterday, with thousands of books displayed.
The books were provided by the China International Book Trading Corporation and Loot, China and South Africa.
Yuqiong Zhao, deputy general manager, Import Centre, China International Book Trading Corporation, said the partnership aims to improve the cultural communications between the two nations.
She described the exchange as an important step in terms of literature and literature education.
The launch of the China-to-Cape book fair was also attended by several renowned publishers from China.
Loot CEO Shakeerah Diedericks said the collaboration will showcase local and international books.
“Together we will create a vibrant and exclusive experience that benefits our communities and inspires a lot of reading. We are now excited to expand our offering by incorporating a curated selection of Chinese books,” Diedericks said.
Chang'an Tang, Deputy Consul General of China in Cape Town, said the books will promote their cultural exchange.
“These books are just like windows, showcasing the unique charm of China's economic progress and culture, and offering South African readers an avenue to understand Chinese politics, economy and culture,” he said.
Meanwhile, the China International Book Trading Corporation and Loot solidified their partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
Speaking at the launch, Viasen Soobramoney, chairperson of the Editorial Board of Independent Media, said that the MOU represents more than just an agreement.
“It signifies a deep commitment to us strengthening our shared values of education, cultural enrichment and access to knowledge,” he said.
A donation was given to the National Library of South Africa and according to Soobramoney this gesture extends knowledge to the broader public.
“This act of generosity ensures that literature continues to be a tool for education empowerment and the preservation of our diverse cultural heritage,” Soobramoney said.
Meanwhile, the exhibition at the Castle of Good Hope is open to the public until tomorrow.
Castle of Good Hope chief executive Calvyn Gilfellan added that books are there to open minds and dig into the deep corners of humanity.
“There is a dark hole in your mind, and it's only when you read that there will be light in that dark hole. It takes you into your own space on a journey of enlightenment and connectivity,” he said.