KUWAIT: Ambassador of France to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin said his ultimate aspiration is to successfully establish a robust framework for French business consulting in Kuwait. During the ambassador’s meeting with local media, he emphasized the significance of strengthening ties, noting that currently, 39 French companies are operating in Kuwait. He highlighted the need to boost Kuwaiti investments in France, saying that although real estate investments are performing well, overall investment levels remain low and require further efforts to improve.

The ambassador affirmed his commitment to further developing economic and commercial relations with Kuwait. “With more than 30 companies present in Kuwait, France is the leading European economic partner of the country, across sectors such as defense, energy, hospitality, healthcare, infrastructure, agrifood, and luxury goods. Our companies showcase French excellence and expertise,” he said.

He emphasized the interest of French groups in development projects within the Kuwait Vision 2035. “French companies offer innovative solutions in areas such as healthcare, logistics, transportation, sustainable economy, and the management of climate-related challenges. I am committed to fostering these beneficial partnerships and encouraging French contributions to Kuwait’s major development projects,” he said.

Study in France

The French ambassador said there are currently 120 Kuwaiti students studying in France, expressing his ambition to strengthen academic exchanges, increasing the number of Kuwaiti students studying in France. He added: “Many Kuwaitis, recognized experts in fields such as science, law, security, international relations, or the humanities, have studied in France and speak of how this experience was a valuable asset in their careers. I am impressed by the high number of French speakers in Kuwait, whom I often discover by chance in conversation, particularly in diwaniyas.”

At the same time, through institutions such as the French Center for Research of the Arabian Peninsula (CEFREPA), an increasing number of French and European students are staying in Kuwait for intensive training in standard Arabic and Kuwaiti dialect. “The intensification of these student exchanges builds long-term ties that embody and enrich the relationship between our two countries, creating shared stories and deep, lasting friendships. Our Kuwaiti and French alumni are exemplary ambassadors of the friendship that unites our two nations,” he said.

Warm weather, people

During the event, the Ambassador and his wife expressed their sincere gratitude to the people of Kuwait, praising an exceptional sense of hospitality and many welcoming gestures. Reflecting on his initial impressions of Kuwait in late August 2024, he said: “I was impressed by the heat, not being accustomed to such temperatures. Indeed, Kuwait’s climate is warm, but people are even warmer. It is the warmth of its people that has most impressed me!”

The ambassador continued “Representing France in Kuwait is an honor. During my mission, I will dedicate all my energy to strengthening our bilateral relationship in its richness and diversity, across the political, defense and security, economic and commercial, cultural, and educational sectors. Ambassador Gauvin presented his credentials to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on October 9, 2024. This meeting with His Highness the Amir provided the opportunity to discuss the priorities for developing the bilateral relationship.

Prized Kuwaiti pearls

Ambassador Gauvin highlighted the deep historical and multifaceted relationship between France and Kuwait, tracing its roots to the 17th century when French geographers first mapped the region, and Kuwaiti pearls were prized by French jewelers like Cartier in the early 20th century.

He emphasized Kuwait’s role as a key energy supplier to France during the 1960s and France’s strong political and military support, including its early recognition of Kuwait’s independence in 1961 and the deployment of 18,000 French troops during the Gulf War in 1991. This enduring friendship, built on trust, respect, and solidarity, is symbolized by the sacrifices made by French soldiers in defense of Kuwait’s sovereignty.

At the end, the ambassador praised the high quality of the press and media in Kuwait stating, “In a context where fake news challenges our information environment, your commitment to verify and high-quality information is invaluable. I know I can rely here on journalists with impeccable professionalism. I am grateful for your work and for your insightful articles, which provide the Kuwaiti public with a clear view of France, of Team France’s action in Kuwait, and of the France-Kuwait relationship.”