ISLAMABAD, Oct 20 (APP):National Book Foundation (NBF) has explored opportunities for translating, publishing and promoting Pakistani literature in Azerbaijan as part of its efforts to introduce Pakistani literary works to international audiences.
In this regard, a meeting was held between Murad Ali Mohmand, Director Headquarters, National Book Foundation and Professor Athar Mahmood, a Pakistani academic based in Azerbaijan, with the support of Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mr Qasim Mohiuddin here Tuesday.
The meeting focused on the possibilities of translating selected NBF publications into Azerbaijani, introducing them to the publishing market in Baku and expanding their reach among Azerbaijani readers. The participants emphasized the importance of translation and publication in broadening intellectual and literary exchanges between the two countries.
Professor Athar Mahmood has been serving in the academic sector in Azerbaijan for the past 12 years and has a strong command of the Azerbaijani language. He expressed his willingness to extend cooperation in translating selected NBF publications into Azerbaijani. The possibilities of publishing and promoting selected titles will be explored, while the necessary publishing rights and permissions will also be secured.
The meeting also discussed the potential translation of the novel Wade Talsam, attributed to an Azerbaijani national literary figure and its possible future publication through the National Book Foundation.
The availability of relevant rights and the required permissions will be essential to taking this initiative forward.
The proposed collaboration could mark a positive step towards promoting literary diplomacy, introducing Pakistani literature to new linguistic audiences and further strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
