To Tunisia, where thousands of visitors have attended the International Book Fair in the capital, Tunis. It's one of the oldest and largest book fairs in North Africa, where writers and publishing houses come together to promote the reading culture. Chinese publishers are offering books translated into French and Arabic to help Tunisians learn more about China's past and present. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi reports.

The 35th edition of the International Book Fair of Tunis has opened at the convention center, North of the capital city. 319 publishing houses from 24 countries including 116 Arab, African and international exhibitors are partaking in the Tunis International Book Fair. It is considered as one of the most important cultural events of the year in the North African state.

HICHEM KACEM DIRECTOR, KA EDITIONS "This is our 4th year participating as a publishing house. We are selling stories and sources of inspiration, not paper. There is a great demand for books. This is unbelievable. I thought that the people no longer read."

Imen organizes workshop for children. She spends several hours reading then explaining tales to young boys and girls. Rewriting the stories and acting is one of the favorite and most attractive activities at the book fair.

IMEN FEHRI VANESSE WORKSHOP "Reading, creating scenes from the stories, then acting it out in a public space is an extraordinary exercise. Children are able to nurture their imagination and become more interested in books."

Some people have come from distant towns and cities to partake in workshops and to buy new books.

MOHAMED BEN AHMED PARTICIPANT "I have traveled 300 kilometers to attend this workshop and to buy books from the fair. I'm passionate about reading. I'm discovering the world through books."

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS "The stand of the Chinese Cultural center in Tunisia, here at the 35th Edition of Tunis International Book Fair has attracted visitors of all ages and social classes."

Tens of books on Chinese culture, language and civilization as well as 6 Chinese legends written by prominent writers are at display at this stand.  

OUMAYMA CHINESE CULTURE STUDENT "The Chinese legends talk about universal values. They were translated from Mandarin to Arabic by university teachers and students. Tunisians love Chinese culture and read Chinese books to discover this great civilization."

Over 20,000 people have attended the book fair. The Ministry of Culture is expecting at least 15,000 additional visitors in the next few days. ADNEN CHAOUACHI, CGTN, TUNIS.