Marking one of Central Asia’s most significant cultural gatherings, the exhibition was inaugurated by Tajikistan’s Minister of Culture, Matlubakhon Sattoriyon, in a ceremony attended by writers, artists, and diplomats from across the region, including Iran’s ambassador to Tajikistan, Ali-Reza Haqiqian.

Visiting Iran’s stand, Sattoriyon commended Tehran’s “vibrant presence” and “active participation,” noting the country’s long-standing role in promoting cultural exchange through literature.

Organized by the Iran Book and Literature House, Iran’s stand features recently published titles from leading Iranian publishers, presented alongside works from China, Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. In total, more than 5,000 books from 40 publishers are on display throughout the event.

Ambassador Haqiqian described the fair as “a platform to deepen cultural and literary ties” between Iran and Tajikistan, emphasizing their shared Persian linguistic and literary heritage as a cornerstone of regional cooperation.

Locally known as Kitobi Dushanbe 2025 (“The Book of Dushanbe”), the exhibition runs throughout the week, featuring book launches, poetry recitals, and professional exchanges aimed at fostering collaboration among Central Asian publishing industries.