CICG launches reading promotion events in Beijing
China International Communications Group (CICG) on Friday launched a series of reading promotion events with the opening of its C-Park National Reading Season in Beijing.
China International Communications Group (CICG) launches a series of reading promotion events with the opening of its C-Park National Reading Season in Beijing, April 17, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
More than 100 attendees, including Chang Bo, president of CICG, Xie Gang, vice president of CICG, officials from affiliated institutions, as well as representatives from the publishing industry and media, took part in the opening ceremony.
In his remarks, Chang said public reading has gained momentum in recent years with strong national support. He noted that 2026 marks the first year of the implementation of the regulation on promoting reading among the public, ushering in a more standardized and sustained phase for reading promotion. The program on Friday combines traditional reading with interactive public engagement through activities such as book fairs and open-mic sessions, aiming to bring reading closer to everyday life. The event also marks the start of CICG's broader series of reading-related initiatives.
Chang said CICG will continue to focus on producing high-quality works and expanding publishing offerings, working with industry partners to produce more publications that reflect the times. He added that CICG will use reading as a bond and publications as a bridge to tell China's stories well and convey China's voice in ways that resonate both domestically and internationally.
The event also featured an open-mic session on reading. Speakers included Shi Yifeng, a recipient of the Lu Xun Literature Prize, and representatives of Chinese and international readers.
In addition, an interactive initiative encouraging participants to put down their phones for one hour in exchange for a free book drew strong interest.
Chang Bo (R2), president of China International Communications Group (CICG), and Xie Gang (R1), vice president of CICG, tour the exhibition at the C-Park National Reading Season in Beijing, April 17, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
The C-Park National Reading Season runs from April 17 to 19, featuring participation from more than 30 publishing brands, over 40 bookstores and 50 cultural brands through book fairs, themed exhibitions, and pop-up events.
China International Communications Group (CICG) launches a series of reading promotion events in Beijing, April 17, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
The event also integrates reading with outdoor leisure and interactive experiences, aiming to make reading more accessible to the general public.