CARACAS, March 21-- China participates for the second time in the Venezuela International Book Fair, running from March 12 to 22 in Caracas, with books showcasing the rich history and traditions of the Asian nation.

"We feel that people are very passionate about Chinese culture, they know many things about our society, traditions and come here very prepared of what they are looking to buy," said Zhou Ziren, the cultural attache at China's embassy to Venezuela.

Zhou said that the exhibition has received thousands of visitors and the books, translated into Spanish, cover such topics as history, geography, economics and politics, as well as music, movies, documentaries and contemporary art.

Social and cultural cooperation between Venezuela and China have increased over the last two years with Beijing's participation in events like this.

The two sides also maintain close collaboration through the Binational Cooperation Fund, which finances projects in this South American country in various areas including social development, technology, health, technical assistance and energy.

Venezuelan Deputy Minister of Culture Giordana Garcia said the book fair had so far received over 200,000 visitors, more than last year.

"The fair has become a cultural event for peace, literary meeting, and creativity," Garcia said.

This year's book fair is dedicated to local writer Gustavo Pereira and has Puerto Rico as the guest of honor, with numerous literary offerings at affordable prices for all Venezuelans.

More than 300 national and international exhibitors participated in the fair, to be followed by nationwide book presentations for all.