On a weekend afternoon, the Oriental Knowledge Bookstore in the Murouj neighborhood of southern Tunis was bustling with visitors. A diverse collection of China-themed books attracted many Tunisians eager to learn about the country.

"Books are an effective bridge for civilizational dialogue," said Khaled, head of the bookstore and president of Tunis-based Oriental Knowledge Publishing House. "By strengthening cooperation with Chinese partners and introducing Chinese books, we aim to share China's development experiences and policy concepts with readers in the Arab world. We want them to see a real, multidimensional, and comprehensive China."

Khaled and his wife, Lotos, who once lived and studied in China for years, founded the publishing house and bookstore in 2016, opening a window for local readers to understand China. In recent years, the publisher has deepened collaboration with Chinese institutions such as China Social Sciences Press, People's Publishing House, and Encyclopedia of China Publishing House, releasing Arabic editions of works including The Global Significance of China's Economic Development, Solving Ten Major Challenges of China's Economy, 40 Years of China's Opening-Up, and The Chinese Way: A Philosophical Interpretation of the Outstanding Features of Chinese Civilization. These books cover topics ranging from political theory and economic growth to philosophy and international cooperation.

"We place special emphasis on books about China's politics and economy," Khaled noted, adding that Arab countries currently face development challenges such as industrial transformation. "China's experiences offer valuable lessons."

Moving forward, Oriental Knowledge Publishing House will prioritize cooperation with Chinese partners on innovation, modernized governance, and concepts like "people-centered development" and "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets."

"Tunisia struggles with water scarcity and environmental pressures, making China's green transition practices highly relevant," Khaled added. The publisher is also preparing a series on China's governance capabilities, detailing its approaches to urban planning, rural development, education, and poverty alleviation.

At the recent 39th Tunis International Book Fair, the publishing house secured new copyright agreements with several Chinese publishers. Upcoming Arabic editions will include China Rural Development Report (2024): Advancing Rural Revitalization with New Quality Productive Forces, Digital Economy Development in African Countries and China-Africa Cooperation, and China-Africa BRI Cooperation in the New Era: Perceptions, Achievements, and Prospects.

This month, Khaled and Lotos will return to China for the 31st Beijing International Book Fair. "This trip is both an opportunity to expand partnerships and a cultural homecoming," Khaled said. "We'll bring more questions to China—and return to Tunisia with answers."

Source: People's Daily, VOC