The Scientific Office of the Syrian Future Movement is closely following the Damascus International Book Fair, which took place yesterday in the capital, Damascus. It views the fair as a significant cultural and intellectual event with implications that extend beyond the realm of mere cultural activity, reflecting a pressing national need to reconnect Syria with science, books, and intellectual thought.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that holding the book fair at this juncture sends a clear message: that human development is the true path to rebuilding the state, and that books and knowledge are not luxuries, but rather fundamental pillars of any national revival project that will restore Syria’s well-being and its civilizational role.
The Syrian Future Movement considers linking Syria’s future to intellectual and scientific research a strategic imperative. Overcoming the effects of the harsh years endured by Syrians is impossible without restoring the value of reason, cultural institutions, and freedom of thought and creativity, as these are essential for shaping a new societal consciousness.
The Syrian Future Movement appreciates President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s participation in the opening of the exhibition and his address therein. His speech emphasized that the advancement of nations is achieved only through science and knowledge, and that true investment lies in human beings and their intellect. These themes form an important foundation upon which to build, making intellectual thought and scientific research the hallmark of the coming era.
The Syrian Future Movement notes positively that this year’s exhibition was distinguished by a clear openness in titles and participation, without imposing restrictions or vetoes on books, authors, or publishing houses, unlike what prevailed in previous eras, when books were banned, ideas were suppressed, and libraries were excluded. This constitutes a necessary step towards consolidating freedom of publication and respecting intellectual diversity.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that protecting, strengthening, and ensuring the continuity of this open approach is a shared national responsibility. This requires clear cultural policies that support writers and researchers, encourage scientific production, and recognize that intellectual diversity is a source of strength, not a threat.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that the book will remain the true standard for the sincerity of any renaissance project, and that a Syria that restores science and thought to their natural place is a Syria capable of regaining its intellectual brilliance and its historical role in its Arab and human environment.
