DUSHANBE, 22.03.2026 (NIAT Khovar) – From March 17–22, 2026, the Republic of Tajikistan participated in key cultural events in Minsk, including the 33rd Minsk International Book Fair and the International Writers’ Symposium “Writer and Time,” Khovar reported, citing the Embassy of Tajikistan in Belarus.

The exhibition opened on March 17 with about 500 exhibitors from 23 countries. One of the forum’s central themes was the 35th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Independent States. Each participating country had a dedicated exhibition space.

Tajikistan’s exhibit was vibrantly decorated with photographs of landmarks, cultural monuments, and books by the head of state, as well as other significant publications. At the initiative of the embassy, a separate pavilion highlighted the country’s literary and cultural heritage. The stand, decorated in a national style with satin and suzani, featured works by President Emomali Rahmon, prominent figures in Tajik and Persian literature, and modern publications by Tajik scholars and writers.

A delegation from Tajikistan participated to showcase the nation’s literature and publishing industry. Ibrohim Ahmadzoda, head of the Publishing and Printing Department of the Ministry of Culture, and Iskandari Orif, head of the Geography Editorial Office of the Tajik National Encyclopedia, presented a collection of newly published books.

The grand opening of the “International Quarter,” one of the exhibition’s key events, was held on March 18. Delegates from participating countries, host-country officials, the CIS Executive Committee leadership, and guests visited Tajikistan’s national stand.

The International Symposium of Writers, “Writer and Time: A Common Humanitarian Space of the CIS as a Way to Confront Modern Challenges,” drew renowned literary figures, including People’s Writer and playwright Ato Hamdam and Said Sangin, editor-in-chief of the Russian-language magazine Pamir, writer, and translator.

A presentation of Tajikistan took place on March 19, featuring a video about the country, welcoming remarks from the ambassador and a representative of the Ministry of Culture, and a rich cultural program. Readings included Abuabdullo Rudaki’s From Knowledge a Bright Light Will Flicker in the Heart in Tajik and Russian. Students from Domullo Azizov Secondary School No. 35 in Minsk performed the song Kudakoni Shirinzabon, and the musical-poetic composition Istiklol, accompanied by piano, conveyed pride in independence and national values.

Throughout the exhibition, Tajikistan’s pavilion attracted significant attention, sparking strong interest in the country’s culture, literature, and traditions.

Tajikistan’s participation in the Minsk International Book Fair provided an opportunity to present its national heritage to a broad international audience and strengthened cultural dialogue, friendly ties, and humanitarian cooperation.