Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah inaugurated the 19th Karachi International Book Fair at the Expo Centre, describing the event as a celebration of knowledge, culture and imagination. “It is an honour to be part of an event that unites book lovers, authors, publishers and readers under one roof,” he said. The chief minister praised the fair for its pivotal role in fostering engagement and collaboration among publishers, booksellers and librarians within the literary community. The five-day event attracted participation from 40 organisations representing 17 countries, marking it as a major literary and cultural milestone for Pakistan. Speaking about its significance, Murad Shah highlighted how the fair unites both national and international publishers, facilitating the exchange of ideas and boosting book sales. “It creates opportunities for authors to connect with publishers and readers, encouraging creative dialogue and nurturing a culture of critical thinking,” he remarked. Joining him at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Shah, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Ahmad Shah and event organisers Waqar Mateen Khan and Aziz Khalid. Murad Shah commended the dedication of the organising committee led by Waqar Mateen Khan for their commitment to making the event a success. “Your passion for promoting literature and love for books is truly inspiring,” he said. The Chief Minister expressed pride in Karachi hosting the nation’s largest book fair, alongside other prominent cultural events, including the 19th Urdu Conference and one of the world’s largest cultural festivals. Reflecting on the vibrant atmosphere of the fair, Shah expressed his joy at the enthusiastic turnout. “Seeing so many people here is heartwarming. I plan to visit the event again in the coming days to fully experience its essence,” he said. Concluding his remarks, the Chief Minister encouraged everyone to embrace the joy of reading. “Every book is a new world waiting to be explored, and every page a journey of discovery,” he said, inviting people to immerse themselves in literature. Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Shah also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the enduring value of traditional books. “While digital formats have their place, the joy of flipping through the pages of a physical book is irreplaceable,” he said. The minister highlighted the historical contributions of Muslims to education and knowledge, referencing the establishment of the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in 859 AD in Morocco and the House of Wisdom in Baghdad during the 9th century. “In comparison, Oxford University was founded in the 12th century, showcasing the pioneering role Muslims played in advancing education,” he noted. However, Sardar Shah lamented the gradual loss of intellectual and educational leadership within the Muslim world due to various challenges. “We must rediscover and embrace our rich heritage of knowledge and innovation,” he urged. The Education Minister’s remarks served as a call to action, encouraging communities to prioritise education and cultivate a culture of reading and learning for future generations.