LEIPZIG, March 15, 2009 -- Chinese literature is in the spotlight at Germany's second largest book fair. The festivities got underway this week in the eastern city of Leipzig. In October, China will be the guest of honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair. So it's taking advantage of this opportunity in Leipzig to get an early start on promoting China's literature and publishing sector.

Chinese literature is in the spotlight at Germany's second  largest book fair.

Chinese authors Gao Hongbo and Xu Lu are scheduled to give a presentation on Chinese literature during the four-day event in Leipzig. The fair also features literature from eastern Europe.

All Chinese authors attending the fair are also scheduled to participate in a panel discussion organized by the Confucius Institute in Leipzig. Their topic will be their work and life in the China of today.

Wu Shulin, Vice Minister of General Admin. of Press & Publication, says, "we will give an overview of the activities China has planned in the run-up to the Frankfurt Book Fair. In the process, German audiences will have an authentic, comprehensive and precise understanding about Chinese literature the publishing industry as well as Chinese history and culture."

The organizing committee is expected to bring more than 80 writers and scholars to Germany for discussions, lectures and talks. Their goal is to introduce Chinese literature to more readers in Germany and around the world.