Iran’s Intl. Quran Exhibition kicks off

The 18th edition of Iran’s International Quran Exhibition has kicked off, hosting national and international publishers at Tehran’s Grand Prayer Grounds.

Quran, Book of Life began on August 5 during a ceremony attended by a number of scholars and officials including the Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyyed Mohammad Hosseini.

Referring to the countless benefits of the Holy Quran for modern societies, Hosseini expressed hope that more attention would be paid to the holy book worldwide.

“It is an honor to host the Quran exhibition which I hope can encourage holding similar events in other parts of the world,” he said.

Deputy culture minister for Quranic affairs Hojjatoleslam Hamid Mohammadi, who was also attending the opening ceremony, said that cooperation among various Iranian organizations was one of main goals of the event.

He also announced that 35 countries were invited to take part in the Quran and Culture of Islamic Nations Section of this year’s event.

More than 340 Iranian and 15 international publishers are offering their products at the event, and over 90 companies are presenting Quranic software.

A number of new sections have been added to the 2010 International Quran Exhibition, such as theatrical performances, photo exhibitions and poetry recitals.

Visitors can also enjoy looking at Tehran’s sky at night using several telescopes set up at the site.

Iran’s 18th International Quran Exhibition will run until Sep. 3.