Paris: A bomb scare temporarily disrupted France’s largest book fair on Sunday as guests were evacuated.

French radio reported that other fairs taking place at the massive complex also were evacuated. The situation appeared calm, police officials said.

It was not immediately clear how the threat was made or whether anybody was specifically targeted.

The book fair, which is honouring Israeli writers, has drawn criticism from some Arab intellectuals. The Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization urged a boycott of the March 14-19 event in response to what the group calls Israel's oppression of the Palestinians.

Israeli President Shimon Peres, in Paris on a state visit, opened the fair last week. He condemned the boycott, which he said is an action that can hurt only those involved.