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The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture chaired the second meeting of the Supreme Committee for the 58th Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF 2027) to resume discussions and review proposals for the upcoming edition, ensuring it reflects Egypt's prominent cultural and civilizational standing.

Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa emphasized that the 58th edition of the CIBF represents an exceptional milestone in the digital transformation and organizational development of the region's largest cultural event. He noted that this year's efforts go beyond merely addressing current logistical challenges; they aim to establish a sustainable digital and investment infrastructure powered by the latest artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and smart solutions to serve millions of visitors and facilitate seamless access to cultural products.

Qonsowa also highlighted the Egyptian state's unwavering commitment to protecting the publishing industry and safeguarding the soft power of national culture. He praised the committee's efforts in proposing and discussing various initiatives designed to deliver an outstanding educational and cultural experience for all segments of society, ensuring an edition worthy of Egypt's global stature and cultural leadership.

Reviewing Previous Edition Data and Executive Committee Structures

The second committee meeting included a comprehensive review of statistical data from the 57th edition, with the goal of surpassing those benchmarks in the upcoming fair. Discussions also covered the structure of the executive committees, outlining their jurisdictions and joint coordination mechanisms. These encompass specialized cultural committees such as the Main Hall, Intellectual Activity, Poetry and Novel, Fair Personality, Book Discussions and Signings, Institutional Activity, International Activity and Guest of Honor, Children’s Activities, Professional Activity and Conferences, Artistic Activity, Arts, and the Media Committee.

The meeting explored proposed criteria for selecting the two focal personalities and the overarching theme for the 58th edition. It outlined the main intellectual and cultural pillars by setting priorities for selecting participating figures, writers, and thinkers. Furthermore, the committee focused on achieving organizational integration across all activities while activating coordination between the Ministry of Culture's sectors and other participating ministries, authorities, and educational and media institutions.

"e-finance" Showcases Unified Digital App Ecosystem

Extensive discussions took place regarding a presentation by "e-finance" on the launch of the new digital ecosystem and unified mobile application, scheduled to debut by December 1. The app will feature smart search capabilities for titles and publishers, interactive maps, and e-ticketing. The committee is also exploring the integration of an AI-powered virtual assistant and an offline browsing feature. Additionally, a joint task force with the Ministry of Communications will be formed to address infrastructure and network challenges inside the Egypt International Exhibitions Center, ensuring the best possible digital service for the public.

Upgrading Movement Paths and Pavilion Spaces

On the field organization front, the meeting reviewed the architectural layout—voluntarily provided by the Capital University Consulting Center—aimed at improving visitor flow, upgrading pavilion spaces, and widening the main aisles. The redesign ensures a fairer distribution of space, guaranteeing equal opportunities for both small and large publishing houses.

AI Assistant and Offline Browsing

Discussions stressed the importance of drawing lessons from past editions to maximize the benefits of the fair's digital platform and ensure its sustainable official launch. Participants highlighted the potential of adding an AI assistant, enabling offline browsing, utilizing the app for sponsor advertising spaces, and supporting the overall sustainability of digital services related to the fair's offerings.

Pre-Launch Meeting Between Publishers and "e-finance"

In this context, an expanded coordination meeting will be held featuring representatives from the Egyptian and Arab Publishers Associations alongside "e-finance" officials. The meeting aims to discuss technical proposals submitted by the publishing industry to ensure their direct integration into the app's software architecture before its official launch.

Intensive Sub-Committee Meetings to Monitor Preparations

Concluding the session, Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa thanked the committee members, affirming that the upcoming phase will see continuous and intensive coordination meetings for the sub-committees to monitor field execution and promptly resolve any obstacles. This proactive approach aims to ensure comprehensive preparations well ahead of the launch, delivering an exceptional edition that upholds the international prestige of the Cairo International Book Fair.