German ambassador calls Logos Hope ‘an interesting experiment’

TDT | Manama   

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Logos Hope, the world's largest floating book fair, is being accorded a warm reception since its arrival in Bahrain, with the German Ambassador to Bahrain, Clemens Hach, describing it yesterday as "an interesting experiment" while expressing gratitude to Bahrain for hosting the ship.

"I’m very glad that Bahrain once again accepted to host it," Hach said, emphasising the significance of the floating bookshop, which travels the globe with 290 volunteers. The ambassador commended Bahrain for its "strong intellectual scene" and deep connection to the sea, stating: "I think it's something that very well fits the nature of Bahrain, the country that's well known for its connection to the sea."

The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, APM Terminals, and Al Moayyed Wilhelmsen are hosting the fair in the Kingdom in collaboration with the German Embassy. The ship, managed by GBA Ships e.V., a nonprofit organisation based in Germany, donates all proceeds to charity.

Having welcomed over 49 million visitors since 1970, Logos Hope has visited 1,500 ports in over 150 countries. This visit to Bahrain marks its return after a gap of 10 years. The ship offers visitors a selection of more than 5,000 different book titles.

The fair has volunteers from 70 nationalities who also engage in charitable activities, including visits to orphanages and hospitals, providing assistance to the needy, and fostering cultural interaction.

Farooq Zubari, CFO and interim CEO of APM Terminals Bahrain, welcomed families and children to experience this unique cultural opportunity at the book fair. He expressed confidence that visitors would find excitement in Bahrain.

"I’m so sure you all will find excitement here in Bahrain," he said. Maysoon Mohammed Sabkar, Director of Communications and Marketing at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, highlighted the importance of hosting Logos Hope in Bahrain. Sabkar emphasised the opportunity it provides to board a ship, interact with the crew, and learn more about this industry.