President Leonel Fernández stressed the importance of education as the pillar for social and economic development in the DR upon inaugurating the II International Book Fair. The fair is dedicated to Dominican Poet, Pedro Mir and to Mexico. Rafael Lantigua, chief organizer of the fair, said that this year 466 exhibitors, including 203 foreign publishing houses from 26 countries, are participating. Some 93 bookstores, 38 individual authors, 28 governmental organizations, 15 cultural foundations, 12 universities, local publishing houses, professional associations, newspapers, magazines, painters, educational videos, computer and religious groups have booths. This year there are 32% more exhibitors than last year. The book fair is the most important cultural event held in the DR every year. Almost half a million people are expected to visit. The International Book Fair will last from 22 April to 2 May. It is again held on the grounds of the National Music Conservatory. The government is spending RD$10-12 million for the event that seeks to promote reading and culture in general.
