The 38th Moscow International Book Fair kicked off on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the VDNH Exhibition Center, featuring selected works from Iranian publishers alongside over 300 exhibitors from Russia and countries including Belarus, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and North Korea.

Why it matters:

Iran’s cultural presence at one of Russia’s most prominent literary events shows growing cultural diplomacy and literary exchange between Tehran and Moscow. The fair provides a platform for showcasing Persian literature, children’s books, and Islamic studies to a global audience.

 

The big picture:

The Iranian pavilion, organized by the Institute of Book and Literature of Iran with support from the Iranian Cultural Attaché in Russia, features over 320 titles across genres such as Iranology, Persian language education, Islamic studies, children’s literature, art, resistance literature, and classical and contemporary fiction.

A parallel children’s book fair is also underway, where Iran is presenting age-specific content and hosting workshops on illustration, storytelling, and Iranian mythology with authors like Marjan Fouladvand and illustrator Atefeh Malekijoo.

 

What he's saying:

Masoud Ahmadvand, Iran’s Cultural Attaché in Moscow:

“This year’s pavilion offers a rich selection of Iranian titles and interactive programs that connect Russian audiences with Persian literary heritage.” He added that books translated from Persian into Russian in recent years are being featured in a dedicated section. The event also includes participation from Sadra Publications and the Ibn Sina Islamic Studies Foundation, which are showcasing over 400 titles.

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