ShareKUWAIT: The Embassy of France held a ceremony on the occasion of launching the Sorbonne Alumni Club “Sorbonne Society” under the patronage and presence of Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah. During her remarks, Claire Le Flecher, Ambassador of France to Kuwait, articulated France’s aspiration to deepen connections with its global alumni network while enhancing the allure of French higher education worldwide, adding that the French Institute in Kuwait and the French Embassy have actively nurtured this collaborative approach, bringing together French alumni in Kuwait who cherish their formative years spent in France.
The French ambassador underscored both countries’ pivotal roles in advancing educational and cultural collaboration, noting that this collective endeavor not only enriches bilateral relations but also heralds a future of strengthened cooperation across academic and diplomatic spheres. “I welcome the creation of the Sorbonne Society in Kuwait. ... And would like to sincerely congratulate the person without whom this ambitious project would never have seen the light of day.
Dr Bashayer Al-Majed, Professor of Law at Oxford and the University of Kuwait, you are an alumnus of Sorbonne Paris 1 University, a journey which left its mark on you and confirmed your love for France,” said Le Flecher. “Dr Bashayer is committed to promoting Kuwait internationally and has often taken courageous positions in the media to defend France when it found itself in difficulty. Thank you for this great achievement which strengthens the friendship.”
The French ambassador also praised Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a leading political figure in Kuwait who is very appreciated in France. “You are strongly committed to the Francophonie, as is your father, Sheikh Nasser Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Your unfailing commitment to Franco-Kuwaiti relations is a strength and a valuable support. “
Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Honorary President of the Sorbonne Society, stated “This event represents a significant step in strengthening the academic and cultural ties between Kuwait and France, as well as a historic moment for all those who share a connection with the Sorbonne and an interest in French culture and education.”
He pointed out that the dedication and enthusiasm of Dr Al-Majed, Founding President of the Sorbonne Society, have made this day possible. “Having obtained my doctorate in political science from Pantheon-Sorbonne University, I am particularly moved by the launch of this society. My academic journey in France has been remarkable, marked by academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and cultural enrichment.
The years spent in Bordeaux, Besançon, Strasbourg, and finally Paris have allowed me not only to appreciate the beauty, the dynamism, and the hospitality of the inhabitants of these cities but also the richness and diversity of the French university landscape. But also enriched my perspective and shaped my understanding of France and the world,” Sheikh Ahmad said.
He added that the society’s goal is “to create a space where inquisitive minds can meet, exchange ideas, and explore new perspectives. The Sorbonne Society in Kuwait will be a place for dialogue, discovery, and sharing, where each member can mutually enrich themselves through their knowledge and experiences.”
In her address, Dr Al-Majed articulated the launch of the pioneering initiative aimed at forging academic and cultural ties between Kuwait and France. She emphasized the Society’s mission to unite professionals from diverse academic backgrounds, fostering international cooperation and advancing scientific, cultural, and academic endeavors, highlighting the society’s commitment to organizing conferences, workshops, and exhibitions as platforms for exchanging ideas and showcasing collaborative projects. “This association will serve as a vital hub for knowledge exchange and collaboration. I am confident that the Sorbonne Society will thrive as a beacon of knowledge and progress,” she said.
