The 69th Belgrade International Book Fair is scheduled to take place from October 23 to 31, 2026, with Tunisia as the guest of honor. This event coincides with the 70th anniversary of Tunisian-Serbian diplomatic relations. The fair will feature over 700 exhibitors and publishers from Tunisia, Serbia, and other countries. Tunisia's participation includes a national pavilion showcasing its literary and cultural heritage.
The Tunisian pavilion will offer a diverse program of cultural events, including lectures on Tunisian literature, musical performances, and an exhibition of archaeological artifacts. There will also be a workshop on Arabic calligraphy and a screening of short films for children. Additionally, a digital film about Tunisian heritage will be showcased. The events aim to promote Tunisian culture and literature, as well as strengthen ties between Tunisia and Serbia.
Tunisian Minister of Cultural Affairs, Ameena Al-Sarrafi, attended the opening ceremony of the book fair, alongside her Serbian counterpart, Nikola Selakovic. The two ministers discussed ways to enhance cultural cooperation between the two countries, including translation of literary works and exchange programs. They also reviewed a cooperation agreement between the Tunisian National Library and the Serbian National Library.
During her visit to Belgrade, Al-Sarrafi met with Serbian Minister of Culture, Nikola Selakovic, to discuss cultural exchange programs. They agreed to organize a Serbian film week in Tunisia and a Tunisian film week in Serbia. The two ministers also discussed preserving cultural heritage and exchanging expertise in restoration and conservation.
On October 24, 2026, Al-Sarrafi inaugurated a documentary exhibition titled "Serbs in Tunisia, 1916-1919" at the Serbian National Library. The exhibition showcases the history of Serbian presence in Tunisia during World War I. The event was attended by Serbian Minister of Culture, Nikola Selakovic, and Tunisian Ambassador to Serbia, Iman Al-Ajili Al-Amari.
In the evening of October 24, Al-Sarrafi attended a symphonic performance at the National Theater in Belgrade. The event, titled "Echoes of the Two Banks," was a collaboration between Tunisian and Serbian artists. The performance combined symphonic music, singing, theater, and traditional Tunisian dances.
The cultural exchange between Tunisia and Serbia aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. The events held during the book fair and beyond demonstrate the strong ties between the two countries. KEY_POINT: Tunisia's participation as the guest of honor at the 69th Belgrade International Book Fair highlights its rich cultural heritage. KEY_POINT: The events aim to promote Tunisian literature and culture, as well as strengthen ties between Tunisia and Serbia. KEY_POINT: The two countries agreed to enhance cultural cooperation, including exchange programs and preservation of cultural heritage.
