ShareKUWAIT: The French Embassy in Kuwait held an event to mark Bastille Day celebration and bilateral relations between France and Kuwait. The event took place on Sunday, July 14, 2024. The occasion of Bastille Day holds special significance this year as France is hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games. During the event, France’s Ambassador to Kuwait Claire Le Flecher expressed her gratitude for the presence of a delegation from the Kuwait Olympic Committee, extending a warm welcome to President Sheikh Fahad Al-Sabah and conveyed her best wishes to the Kuwaiti team. She thanked the partners and sponsors whose generous support has made the event possible.
During the tenure of the Ambassador of France to Kuwait over the past three years, significant milestones have been achieved, reinforcing the enduring ties between our nations. “The elevation of France-Kuwait Strategic Dialogue to a ministerial level underscores our longstanding friendship and mutual aspirations for enhanced bilateral relations. Against the backdrop of regional challenges, France and Kuwait have demonstrated a joint commitment to multilateralism, peace, and international solidarity. Particularly commendable are Kuwait’s humanitarian efforts, notably in Gaza and Sudan, reflecting shared values of compassion and global responsibility,” she elaborated.
Le Flecher also emphasized that economically, there has been notable enthusiasm among French and Kuwaiti companies to cultivate strong business relationships. Events such as the “Vision Golfe” and “Choose France” forums have facilitated productive exchanges and collaborations. “The establishment of the France-Kuwait Friendship Society further underscores our commitment to fostering enduring partnerships between private sectors and civil societies in both countries,” she said.
With regards to cultural and educational exchange, she mentioned the upcoming Francophonie Summit in France, which serves as a testament to the rich cultural exchange between France and Kuwait. Kuwait has shown a strong commitment to Francophonie, evident in the dedication of teachers, alumni, and Francophone advocates. Le Flecher’s recognition was extended to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Mohamed Al-Sabah and the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie for their genuine support. Initiatives such as the Sorbonne Society and the French Research Center of the Arabian Peninsula play a crucial role in promoting academic and research collaborations, enhancing educational opportunities for scholars from both nations.
Moreover, she elaborated on France and Kuwait’s partnership in defense and security, anchored by the 1992 defense agreement - the oldest of its kind signed by France in the Gulf region. “Our defense cooperation is exemplified by joint trainings and exercises, including recent air superiority drills involving French and Kuwaiti jet fighters. The CARACAL helicopter program stands as a testament to our enduring collaboration, with Kuwait now boasting one of the largest CARACAL fleets globally, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Airbus and DCI personnel,” she said.
“The bilateral relationship between France and Kuwait continues to thrive across diplomatic, economic, cultural, educational, and defense sectors. As we celebrate Bastille Day and eagerly anticipate the Olympic Games, we are confident that our shared commitment to innovation, partnership, and mutual respect will pave the way for even greater achievements in the future,” Le Flecher concluded.
