Colombia, August 7 (NationPress) - India will feature as the 'Guest of Honour' at the 38th Bogota International Book Fair (FILBo) in 2026, heralding a significant new chapter in the cultural exchange between the two nations.

The Indian Embassy in Colombia took to social media platform X to announce, "FILBo has designated India as the Guest of Honour for the Bogota International Book Fair 2026! Ambassador Vanlalhuma expressed appreciation, emphasizing that literary exchange serves as a vital link for fostering deeper connections and enhancing people-to-people interactions."

The announcement event was attended by numerous Colombian officials, including the Cultural Minister, the Director of FILBo, the President of Corferias, and the Executive President of the Colombian Book Chamber.

Since its inception in 1988, the Colombian Book Chamber and Corferias have collaborated to organize the Bogota International Book Fair, a partnership that has established the event as one of the most significant cultural gatherings in the Spanish-speaking world.

Over its 35-year history, the fair has united various stakeholders in the book industry, including authors, publishers, editors, proofreaders, translators, distributors, agents, and booksellers, who together with their audience, contribute to the ever-evolving book ecosystem.

India's National Book Trust made its debut with a collective exhibit showcasing Indian literature at the 37th Bogota International Book Fair 2025, which took place from April 25 to May 11.

The diplomatic relationship between Colombia and India was established in January 1959, and they celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties in 2019. Colombia inaugurated its Embassy in New Delhi in March 1972, followed by India's Embassy opening in Colombia in 1973.

Numerous memoranda of understanding and agreements have been signed between the two nations across various sectors, including trade, science and technology, defense, IT, tourism, space, health, and culture.

There is a burgeoning interest among Colombians regarding India's rich culture and heritage. Indian festivals, dances, music, cuisine, and spirituality are gaining popularity in Colombia. Some Colombians, who previously learned Indian classical and folk dances in India, have now become professional performers.

The Embassy has organized several festivals, performances, exhibitions, and film screenings in recent years. Collaborating with local talent, they have hosted dance performances at various universities during International weeks. Numerous cultural exchanges have occurred with troupes visiting both countries.