Ou Buqian, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Dubai, has affirmed that the selection of the United Arab Emirates as guest of honour at the 32nd Beijing International Book Fair in 2026 represents a new historic milestone in the trajectory of Sino-Emirati relations.
She said it reflects the distinguished standing reached by the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries across economic, trade, cultural, knowledge, and civilisational exchange dimensions. Ou Buqian told Al Bayan: "We are delighted that the UAE will be the guest of honour at the Beijing International Book Fair this year. This selection embodies the mutual trust and deep respect between our two countries, and reflects the great success achieved by Sino-Emirati relations at all levels."
She added: "Recent years have witnessed remarkable development in cultural cooperation between China and the UAE."
She explained that the "Emirati House" pavilion at the fair will offer Chinese visitors a wide window into the richness of Emirati and Arab culture, and the achievements the UAE has realised in the fields of creativity, the publishing industry, and the knowledge economy, while also shedding light on the ancient Arab civilisational heritage and the values of tolerance and openness that distinguish Emirati society.