KUWAIT: On the occasion of International Francophonie Day, embassies of member states of the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF) represented in Kuwait announced on Sunday the launch of the Francophonie Month. Ambassador of France to Kuwait Claire Le Flecher unveiled the inauguration of Francophonie Month 2024 in Kuwait, scheduled to take place from March 3 to 20, 2024.
Le Flecher revealed plans for an extensive array of events aimed at celebrating the French language and fostering intercultural dialogue within the Kuwaiti community. Among the diverse lineup of activities slated for the monthlong celebration are conferences, film screenings, Girgian and the commemoration of an Olympic Day, promising a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.
The launch of Francophonie Month 2024 serves as a poignant moment to reflect on the significance of Francophonie in Kuwait. The French language holds a prominent position within the country, with its inclusion in public secondary school curricula dating back to the 1960s. Kuwait expressed interest in joining the International Organization of Francophonie, following the Francophonie summit, underscoring its commitment to embrace Francophone culture on a global scale, with official membership anticipated in the near future.
Meanwhile, the organizing committee extended heartfelt gratitude to all supporters of Francophonie in Kuwait, with special recognition bestowed upon HH Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, Honorary Chairman of the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie in Kuwait (CPFK). His unwavering dedication and support have been instrumental in advancing the cause of Francophonie within Kuwait, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
At the heart of the International Organization of Francophonie lies a steadfast commitment to advancing the French language alongside a shared set of values that encompass democracy, peace, women’s and children’s rights, education and the free flow of knowledge.
As anticipation mounts for the year ahead, 2024 emerges as a momentous period for the French-speaking world, marked by the forthcoming Summit of Francophonie, slated to commence on Oct 4. Set against the backdrop of the newly established International City of the French Language in Villers-Cotteret, France, this summit promises to galvanize dialogue and cooperation among Francophone nations, underscoring the enduring significance of linguistic and cultural ties within the global community.
The inauguration of the International City of the French Language on Oct 30, presided over by President Emmanuel Macron, stands as a pivotal moment in the history of Francophonie, symbolizing a dedicated space for the celebration and preservation of the French language and culture. This innovative hub serves as a testament to the enduring vitality and relevance of the French language, offering a platform for fostering mutual understanding and collaboration among Francophone countries. With its inauguration, the International City of the French Language emerges as a beacon of linguistic heritage and cultural exchange, poised to catalyze engagement and innovation within the Francophone community for generations to come.