The 17th Beijing International Book Fair kicks off in the Chinese capital.

This year's convention for Chinese and overseas publishers has over 1,800 exhibitors from 58 countries and regions taking part in over one thousand activities.

The book fair traces a historical bond with India, the Country of Honor this year.

India and China are both countries with ancient civilization, the earliest link traces to Xuan Zang's journey to India in pursuit of Buddhism.

The religion common to both countries has led to a myriad of publications, and a theme exhibition on Buddhism. But the cultural exchange stretches far beyond. Twenty-five Indian publishing houses have set up booths on the site, with lectures delivered from 20 Indian writers. For professor Bipan Chandra, the literary bond is constant and will be renewed.

He Jun, general manager of China Publishing Group Corporation, said, "The espresso book machines is advantageous over a traditional printing machine in that it does not require editing. Users could print books downloaded from the Internet, or from their flash disk. It's convenient to print out rare and single copies. "

And Chinese writers have been making their collective stance for the first time at the book fair. The China Writers' Pavilion has introduced over one thousand titles to overseas markets since the policy of reform and opening up.

He Jianming, vice chairman of China Writer' Association, said, "Chinese literature is a powerful form in which the country's culture can be exported overseas. This is the first time that we have set up a pavilion. It's a meaningful way to present Chinese writers."

It's hoped that through the book fair, the voice of Chinese writers could be heard on a even broader sphere.

(CNTV.cn August 31, 2010)