Cairo Book Festival: Norwegian Literature Takes Front Stage

Explore the richness of Norwegian literature at the 55th Cairo International Book Fair, with Nobel Laureate Jon Fosse's works taking center stage.

on Jan 22, 2024

Cairo Book Festival: Norwegian Literature Takes Front Stage

The 55th Cairo International Book Fair is expected to become a gateway for Norwegian literature, with Norway serving as the guest country for this big literary festival.

Ambassador Hilde Klemetsdal expresses gratitude for Norway's spotlight moment.
Hilde Klemetsdal, Norway's ambassador to Egypt, expressed her heartfelt thanks for the invitation, noting that the fair, known as one of the world's largest and oldest in the Arab world, provides an exciting opportunity to display Norwegian literature, art, and culture to an Arab audience. The Cairo International Book Fair brings together international publishers, authors, and literary aficionados.

In a joint press conference with Minister of Culture Nevine El-Kilani, Ambassador Klemetsdal emphasised the fair's importance as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. She revealed that Crown Princess Mette-Marit will launch the Norwegian programme at the fair, and Norway's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide, would also take part in the opening ceremony.

Celebrating Nobel Laureate Jon Fosse: Highlighting Norway's Literary Heritage
The Norwegian programme, which lasts 13 days, intends to acquaint Egypt and the Arab world to Norway's rich literary history, particularly the works of famed Nobel winner Jon Fosse, whose writings have been translated into Arabic. Fosse is usually regarded as one of the most internationally recognisable figures in contemporary literature.

The programme, planned by primary exhibitor Norwegian Literature Abroad (NORLA), will highlight Norway's world-class authors, with some in attendance to interact with Egyptian readers. The show, which will take place from January 25 to February 6 at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in New Cairo, promises to be an enriching experience for literature fans.