The 31st Sofia International Book Fair has opened, with Hungary as the guest of honour. Tibor Navracsics, Hungarian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Administration and Justice, opened Bulgaria’s most prestigious review of the publishing and bookselling industry.

In his speech Mr. Navracsics said that at the end of the 20th century, countries which became really successful were those which not only protected their identities and distinctive cultural values, but strengthened them also. ‘There is no success and no economic progress without the sustaining strength of a national language and culture,’ he said. He continued by saying that ‘Europe’s present is the result of free nations competing with each other, and not wishing  to destroy each other – this will also be the key to Europe’s future development.’

This year twenty-four books related to Hungary are appearing in Bulgaria – more than half of these are newly-translated works of literature. In addition, there are dictionaries and works of non-fiction. Also connected to the fair are Hungarian folk dance performances, film screenings and a contemporary Hungarian play at one of Sofia’s most important theatres. These events have been organised by the Hungarian Institute in Sofia.

(Ministry of Public Administration and Justice)