The International Promotion Programme of Chinese Ethnic Writers and International Forum on Translation and Publication of Chinese Ethnic Literature was held on Aug 24, 2017 in Beijing. [Photo provided to Chinaculture.org]

The International Promotion Programme of Chinese Ethnic Writers and International Forum on Translation and Publication of Chinese Ethnic Literature was held on Thursday in Beijing during the 24th Beijing International Book Fair. The event was co-organized by China Translation & Publishing House, Chinese Culture Translation and Studies Support, Chinese Minority Writers’ Society and National Literature Magazine.

Chinese and foreign guests shared their insights on features of ethnic literature, exchange between Chinese ethnic groups and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as problems in translating and promoting ethnic literature. In addition, publishers showed great interest and passion for promoting ethnic literature.

“There are 55 ethnic minorities in China. Ethnic literature is an important part of Chinese literature. Many excellent ethnic writers have created literary works with unique cultural and literary features. However, for readers in neighboring countries with the same language, religion and ethnic background, Chinese ethnic literature is easier to understand and accept,” said Xu Zhengming, deputy director-general of the Publishing Management Department at the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television of The People’s Republic of China (SAPPRFT) in a speech.

SAPPRFT initiated the Promotion Programme of Chinese Ethnic Writers. The program aims to translate excellent ethnic literary works into different languages, so that foreign readers can get in touch with the real essence of ethnic culture, qualities and unique aesthetic judgments. Up to now, this series of books has been translated into 19 languages and more than 70 books have been contracted to be published globally.