The Kabul Book Fair was held in celebration of World Book Day
The Afghanistan Economic and Legal Studies Organization (AELSO), in collaboration with Bakhtar University, the White Assembly, and several publishing partners, brought authors, researchers, university professors, and curious minds at the Kabul Book Fair which was a vibrant space for sharing ideas, stories, and a collective love for learning. At the fair, speakers shared heartfelt reflections on the power of books, calling them “the key to awareness, enlightenment, creation, and the advancement of societies.” They spoke of books as timeless carriers of experience that connect generations, shape cultural values, and raise literacy. Books, they said, aren’t just for reading; they’re essential for growth and understanding in any society.
One highlight of the fair was the debut of Development with Dignity, a book that many see as a game-changer for Afghanistan’s growth. Experts and development institutions underscored the importance of implementing their ideas within the country’s development programs. The event itself felt like a big conversation, with authors, publishers, professors, and young readers all sharing their thoughts on how we can build a brighter future together.
Javed Farhad, an author and literary researcher, said, “A book is a bridge between the past and the future; with every page we turn, we gain new wisdom and broaden our society’s horizons.” Abdullah Adeeb, a young publisher, remarked, “Publishing a book is a mission to preserve our intellectual and cultural heritage; each work printed is a step toward building a brighter tomorrow.” Young attendees and other visitors also described books as “the primary source of awareness and progress in human life,” stressing their role in promoting practical knowledge and strengthening cultural values. Ahmad Wasim Formoli, one of the visitors, commented, “Events like this are crucial for promoting a reading culture; I hope more fairs like this will be organized so that a love of reading spreads throughout society.”
With over five thousand titles on display, the Kabul Book Fair became a lively gathering where writers, researchers, professors, students, and publishers came together to share ideas and their experiences, connect with one another, and spark exciting new partnerships.
AELSO expresses its gratitude to all partners and participants and reaffirms its commitment to preserving cultural values through such events, opening windows of hope, knowledge, and enlightenment so that the voice of learning and wisdom may resonate throughout society.
