‘Mango Mania' festival boosts Indian mango presence in Kuwaiti markets
In a press statement, the embassy explained that the goal of the event is to strengthen India's position as a reliable source of high-quality mangoes in the Kuwaiti market, especially since Kuwait is among the top five importers of mangoes from India, with a value exceeding $3 million last year.
The campaign included a major event titled 'Mango Mania', at Lulu Hypermarket in Al-Rai, which was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador to Kuwait Dr. Adarsh Swaika, with the participation of a delegation of 10 Indian exporters. The delegation presented several Indian mango varieties, such as Chausa, Mallika, Amrapali, Dasheri, Fazli, and Langra from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Fazli mango received special attention due to its Geographical Indication of Origin (GI) label. Meanwhile, the embassy organized a meeting between Indian exporters and local importers at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI); with the ambassador, KCCI director general, and representatives of major retail and hypermarket companies in attendance
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Arab Times
23 minutes ago
- Arab Times
Pakistan eyes stronger trade, food security ties with Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY, July 29: Pakistani Ambassador to Kuwait Dr. Zafar Iqbal revealed that his country and Kuwait are currently discussing the establishment of a direct shipping line between Gwadar Port in Pakistan and Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port in Kuwait. In an interview with the newspaper, Iqbal affirmed that this project will address shortages, reduce costs, and strengthen the position of Kuwait as a regional logistics hub. He said Pakistan is keen on developing the logistical connectivity between the two countries as part of efforts to support food security and diversify supply chains. He added that his country has agricultural and industrial resources to make it a strategic partner of Kuwait. He disclosed that Pakistani exports to Kuwait reached about $193 million from July 2024 to June 2025, while imports from Kuwait exceeded $1.5 billion, specifically petroleum products and chemicals. He also stated that the Pakistani community in Kuwait is estimated at 100,000 individuals who are known for their discipline and dedication at work; serving in various sectors such as health, education, construction and services. He believes there is huge potential for academic cooperation between the universities of the two countries. Following is an excerpt of the interview: Question: How do you assess the nature of the current political relationship between Kuwait and Pakistan? Is there regular direct communication between the two leaderships? Answer: The relationship between Pakistan and Kuwait is characterized by strong fraternal ties, mutual respect and shared values. The leaderships of the two countries maintain close contact and regularly exchange messages on issues of mutual interest. In recent months, several contacts have taken place at the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister levels; thereby, strengthening bilateral relations. Q: Does Pakistan cooperate with Kuwait on common security issues, especially in light of regional challenges like terrorism and human trafficking? A: Yes, Pakistan and Kuwait share concerns about regional and global security. We work together to address crossborder challenges. Both sides believe in the importance of strengthening institutional cooperation and intelligence sharing for the benefit of both countries and in accordance with international standards. Q: What is Pakistan's position on regional tensions? What role can Islamabad play as a nuclear power with balanced relations with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Iran? A: Pakistan believes in the principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and dialogue. We consistently advocate de-escalation and engagement in diplomacy as the best path toward resolving tensions in the Gulf region. As a trusted friend of Kuwait and other Gulf states, we support Kuwaiti initiatives aimed at healing the rift and strengthening Gulf unity. We appreciate the wise approach of Kuwait under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah. Q: How do you view Kuwait's efforts in regional mediation? Do you consider Pakistan a potential partner in regional security efforts? A: Kuwait has long been a beacon of peace, moderation and diplomacy. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has exerted tremendous efforts in mediation and promoting harmony in the region. Pakistan fully supports these initiatives and considers itself a natural partner in any efforts aimed at ensuring peace and prosperity in the region. Q: What is the current value of the trade volume between the two countries? What are the main goods and services that both sides are focusing on? A: Pakistan's exports to Kuwait from July 2024 to June 2025 amounted to around $193 million -- a remarkable increase compared to the previous year. Pakistani exports to Kuwait include food, textiles, surgical instruments and leather; while Kuwait's exports to Pakistan are mainly petroleum products and chemicals, valued at more than $1.5 billion in the last fiscal year. Q: Are there any Pakistani investment in Kuwait or vice versa at present? What are the obstacles that Kuwaiti investors are facing now? A: Pakistani companies continue to establish their presence in Kuwait; particularly in the services, food and retail sectors. On the other hand, Kuwait has always been the reliable investment partner of Pakistan. One example is the Pakistan- Kuwait Investment Company (PKIC). Major Kuwaiti companies like Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC), Enertech and a number of fintech and infrastructure companies are currently investing in the Pakistani economy or exploring new opportunities. To ease foreign investment procedures, the Pakistani government established the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to provide a comprehensive platform that expedites procedures, removes barriers, and provides direct support in sectors such as agriculture, energy, information technology and mining. We welcome Kuwaiti investments in Pakistan. Q: How can Kuwait benefit from the agricultural and industrial resources of Pakistan? A: Pakistan has fertile agricultural lands and a developed industrial base, making it a strategic partner in supporting the efforts of Kuwait to achieve food security and diversify supply chains. We can provide fresh food products, rice, pulses, and frozen and chilled halal meat; in addition to the possibility of exporting live sheep to Kuwait. We are keen on developing logistical connectivity between the two countries. Discussions are underway to establish a direct shipping line between Gwadar and Mubarak Al-Kabeer ports. This project aims to reduce shipping period, lower costs, and strengthen Kuwait's position as a regional logistics hub. Q: How large is the Pakistani community in Kuwait? How do you assess their situation? A: The Pakistani community in Kuwait includes around 100,000 people. They are known for their discipline, dedication and contributions to various sectors like health, education, construction and services. We express our gratitude to the Kuwaiti leadership for taking care of this community. Q: Does the Pakistani community face challenges? How do you deal with them? A: Although the majority has integrated positively; some challenges, such as labor disputes or residency issues, may arise from time to time. We constantly coordinate with the Ministry of Interior and the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) to address these issues and protect the interests of citizens. Q: Do you monitor labor conditions and coordinate with Kuwaiti authorities in this regard? A: The Embassy of Pakistan is in constant contact with the relevant Kuwaiti authorities to ensure fair working conditions and legal protection for Pakistani workers. We thank the Kuwaiti authorities for their cooperation. Q: How do you evaluate the level of cultural and academic exchange between the two countries? A: The two countries have a long history of cultural and educational exchanges. In the past, many Kuwaitis studied at Pakistani universities, particularly in the fields of Medicine and Engineering. We welcome the resumption of these exchanges. We encourage Kuwaiti students to benefit from our world-class academic institutions. In the same manner, we are expanding study opportunities for Pakistani students in Kuwait. Q: Do you have any initiatives to promote the Urdu language or Pakistani culture in Kuwait? A: The embassy supports several initiatives; such as cultural events, Urdu language classes and school activities. We look forward to expanding this cooperation with the support of Kuwaiti institutions. Q: Is there potential for cooperation between universities in the field of scientific research and technology? A: here is significant potential for academic cooperation in the fields of Engineering, Information Technology, Medicine and Agriculture. We hope to launch joint research programs and faculty exchange. Q: What is Pakistan's position on the recent developments in Palestine? Is there coordination with Kuwait within the framework of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation? A: Pakistan fully supports the rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination and calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian State on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital. We appreciate Kuwait's supportive stance on Palestine. We cooperate within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to unify Islamic positions and achieve justice. Q: How do you see the future of joint Islamic action in light of the political divisions among some Islamic countries? A: Unity among Islamic countries is essential despite the differences. Shared values and common challenges require stronger cooperation. We believe that the balanced Kuwaiti leadership is a beacon of hope in terms of having unified Islamic voice on the international stage. Q: How does the embassy handle community complaints? Is there a unified electronic platform? A: We have updated consular services through appointment systems, communication lines, social media and email. Community members can submit complaints through official portals; such as the Overseas Pakistanis Complaints Portal, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, and Pakistan Citizen app. Q: How do you see the future of Kuwaiti-Pakistani relations in light of global changes? A: The future is promising. Partnership between the two countries will grow in the fields of energy, trade, education, health, food security, and human resource development. Kuwait has the vision and resources, while Pakistan has the competencies and capabilities. Q: What is your message to the leadership and people of Kuwait? A: I extend my highest appreciation and respect to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah, the wise leadership, and the generous people of Kuwait. Pakistan views Kuwait as a partner in faith and compassion, and a friend in the pursuit of peace and development. On behalf of more than 240 million Pakistanis, we affirm our pride in our close historical relationship and look forward to a shared future built on mutual values and trust.
Kuwait Times
27 minutes ago
- Kuwait Times
KFH reports KD 342.1m in net profit for bank's shareholders for H1 2025
Net operating income grew 7.9% * Net financing income grew 8.7% * Total assets increased to KD 38.5bn KUWAIT: Chairman of Kuwait Finance House (KFH) Hamad Abdulmohsen Al-Marzouq announced that KFH achieved a net profit of KD 342.1 million for the first half of 2025 for the bank's shareholders. Earnings per share for the first half of 2025 reached 19.23 fils. Net financing income for the first half of the year reached KD 607.3 million; an increase of 8.7 percent compared to the same period last year. Total operating income for the first half of 2025 increased, supported by the increase in all core activities to reach KD 876 million; an increase of 6.4 percent compared to the same period last year. This growth is particularly notable given that the comparative income for 2024 included profits of KD 70.1 million from the sale of KFH-Bahrain during Q2 2024. Net operating income for the first half of the year reached KD 566.7 million; an increase of 7.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The cost-to-income ratio for H1-25 improved to 35.3 percent compared to 36.2 percent for the same period last year. Financing receivables at the end of the first half of 2025 reached KD 20.4 billion, an increase of 7.1 percent compared to the end of last year. Total assets at the end of the first half of 2025 amounted to KD 38.5 billion, an increase of 4.9 percent compared to the end of last year. Shareholders' equity for the same period amounted to about KD 5.6 billion, an increase of 0.8 percent compared to the end of last year. Depositors' accounts for the first half of 2025 amounted to KD 19.7 billion, an increase of 2.7 percent compared to the end of last year. In addition, the capital adequacy ratio reached 18.01 percent which is above the limit required by regulators. This ratio confirms the solid capital base of KFH. The Board of Directors has agreed to distribute a semi-annual cash dividend of 10 fils per share. Outstanding performance In a press release, Al-Marzouq said that KFH continues to lead the banking sector and the Kuwaiti market in profitability. This remarkable achievement comes despite the challenging operating environment and geopolitical shifts in the region, which have brought uncertainty to the economic landscape. He emphasized that KFH's success stems from precisely implemented plans that ensure sustainable profits and maintain KFH's solid financial position and robust performance. Al-Marzouq also highlighted the strength of KFH's financial statements for the first half of this year, which showcase a strong capital base, good liquidity ratios, and exceptional operational performance. These factors have collectively driven sustainable growth across all key financial indicators. Operational efficiency Al-Marzouq emphasized that KFH continues to boost its operational efficiency, increase revenues, and optimally use its capabilities in line with global standards. This approach will improve asset quality, enhance risk management, and help the bank rationalize expenses, especially as it navigates the current global financial landscape and the competitive financial services industry. Coordination and integration He added that KFH is working to achieve great ambitions by maximizing the effectiveness of the Group's banks and fostering seamless coordination and integration among. This approach guarantees increased revenues and improved performance, while also leveraging the unique potential and advantages of each market. New chapter Al-Mazrouq said that KFH successfully launched the new visual identity for Ahli United Bank - Bahrain, rebranding it as Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain. This move complements a series of achievements realized under the new brand slogan, 'Beyond Horizons'. He explained that this series began in Kuwait, subsequently extending to the United Kingdom and the Arab Republic of Egypt. 'This initiative is part of KFH's strategy for expansion and global leadership as an Islamic banking group.' He emphasized that the new brand launch reflects a shift in vision and concept, marking the beginning of a new chapter of integration and excellence in banking services. Financing and development Al-Marzouq highlighted KFH's continued dedication and ability to fund large-scale projects in all sectors, including production, service, commercial and development. By offering a diverse range of financing services and solutions, KFH actively supports the government's comprehensive development plans. He highlighted the bank's strengths, which position it as one of the most trusted and preferred institutions for corporate financing. KFH also enjoys a substantial market share in financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within Kuwait's banking sector. Furthermore, the bank is keen to fund numerous large-scale projects, utilizing flexible and efficient Sharia-compliant financing structures. This has established KFH as the preferred partner and lead arranger for many major joint financing deals. Training and promotion Al-Marzouq said that KFH is steadfast in its commitment to nurturing national talent and developing future leaders. Through ongoing training and development programs, partnered with local institutions, universities, and international centers, the bank aims for peak operational efficiency and productivity. This dedication recently saw several national employees advance to senior leadership roles across various departments. CSR & sustainability Al-Marzouq noted that KFH's social impact grew significantly last year, thanks to its involvement in many key strategic social initiatives. These efforts highlight the crucial role KFH plays in society, alongside its leading position in the economic, developmental and banking sectors. He highlighted how KFH has created a pioneering and role model for embedding sustainability principles across its entire group. 'KFH has seen remarkable success in green financing and implementing a comprehensive sustainability strategy that's central to its mission and vision. The bank is further strengthening its commitment by adopting integrated, comprehensive, and balanced practices in the key areas of sustainability: environmental, social and governance (ESG).' Al-Marzouq explained that KFH was the first entity to start publishing impact measurement reports, and it annually releases both a Sustainability Report and a Carbon Footprint Report. KFH has been awarded an 'A' rating by MSCI. Additionally, KFH has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for its exemplary performance in environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. Khaled Yousef Al-Shamlan KFH Group CEO Sound financial indicators Meanwhile, KFH Group CEO Khaled Yousef Al-Shamlan said that the bank's H1 2025 profits confirms its robust operational performance and leading position in the Kuwaiti banking sector. He noted that the financial performance for this period reflects prudent strategies and effective policies that consistently yield sustainable profits, solid financial position, asset quality, and good indicators for operating income, cost to income ratios as well as liquidity ratios and capital adequacy. Global leadership Al-Shamlan said that 'KFH ranked first as the best-performing bank in Kuwait, according to The Banker magazine's 2025 ranking of the top 1,000 global banks. KFH has maintained its position as Kuwait's largest listed company, in Forbes' Global 2000 list for the largest public companies in the world, reinforcing its standing using four metrics, revenues, profits, assets and market value.' He pointed out that KFH has won numerous international awards, including 'The Middle East's Best Islamic Bank' and 'Kuwait's Best Bank' from Euromoney. KFH was also named 'Best Bank for Financial Institutions in the Middle East for 2025' by Global Finance, in recognition of its excellence and distinction in banking. Growing market share Al-Shamlan emphasized KFH's ongoing drive to boost market share by offering competitive products, services, and cutting-edge financing solutions, such as Financing Against Gold Account Collateral. He also highlighted the continuous effort to strengthen KFH's presence in international markets, improve coordination among the Group's banks, and enhance customer service through the KFH Group Service Center. Currently, this center supports KFH-Turkey and KFH-Egypt, with plans to extend its services to other Group banks in the coming period. Al-Shamlan attributed the bank's sustained leadership to its vast experience and large customer base, which collectively reinforce its competitive edge and brand strength. Digitalization and innovation Al-Shamlan also noted that KFH continues to lead digital innovation in banking, offering diverse digital services and solutions to elevate customer experience. He added that KFH launched (Fahad), Kuwait's first virtual assistant employee powered by artificial intelligence. This coincides with a comprehensive update and redesign of the KFHOnline app, now offering over 200 digital banking services to meet high customer demand. KFH also introduced the KFH Virtual Rewards Prepaid Card as a unique payment experience, alongside updated customer software. Additionally, a new, secure, and easy payment service for businesses was rolled out, transforming mobile phones into point-of-sale devices for accepting payments via debit cards and digital wallets.
Arab Times
an hour ago
- Arab Times
Kuwait is France's trusted ally in the region: Ambassador Gauvin
KUWAIT CITY, July 29: The Kuwaiti- French relations are witnessing rapid and remarkable development, driven by political and diplomatic momentum that has brought the partnership between the two countries back into the spotlight; especially after the historic visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to the French capital, Paris, in response to an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron to participate in the French National Day celebrations on July 14. In light of this rapid progress in bilateral relations, the newspaper interviewed French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin, who spoke candidly about future prospects for cooperation and priority areas. He affirmed that his country considers Kuwait a reliable ally in the region, and that the next phase will witness stronger coordination at the bilateral and international levels. Following are details of the interview Question: How did the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Paris on the occasion of Bastille Day contribute to strengthening the economic partnership between France and Kuwait? Answer: The recent visit of His Highness the Amir to France helped reinforce the strategic dimension of our economic partnership, notably through the signing of the 2025-2035 Franco-Kuwaiti Strategic Investment Partnership. This decade is one of technological, energy and economic transitions, aligned with both Kuwait Vision 2035 and France 2030. The agreement also provides for the establishment of a joint task force on cross-investments between France and Kuwait; aimed at fostering the emergence of concrete projects ahead of the next Choose France summit. On July 13, His Highness also met with leaders of French companies in innovative sectors. These discussions aimed to promote French expertise and support Kuwait's economic transformation in the priority sectors of its Vision 2035 plan. At the conclusion of the visit, both Heads of State reaffirmed their shared commitment to encouraging investments from their respective government authorities and public institutions, such as BPI France and Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), in projects and funds that contribute to the development of their respective economies. This visit is a testament to the mutual trust and shared ambition of our two countries in the economic field. French companies operating in Kuwait bring recognized expertise in various sectors, including energy, environment, transport and hospitality. It also reflects the attractiveness of the Kuwaiti market and the esteem in which French know-how is held in Kuwait. Kuwaiti investments in France, for their part, are following an upward trend. This growing appeal is largely driven by the France 2030 strategy, a €54 billion investment plan designed to address major ecological, technological and industrial challenges and to support breakthrough innovations. Q: Beyond the visit of His Highness the Amir to France, how have other bilateral exchanges and events organized in 2025 contributed to strengthening the economic partnership between France and Kuwait? A: The year 2025 has been marked by numerous high-level exchanges between economic and innovation stakeholders from both countries. From Feb 6-11, France hosted the Summit for Action on Artificial Intelligence, which was attended by Kuwait's Minister of Telecommunications, Omar Al-Omar, as well as a delegation of Kuwaiti economic actors active in the sector. With more than 40,000 participants, this summit was exceptional, announcing €109 billion in private investments in AI infrastructure in France, and €200 billion in public and private investments across Europe through the European Commission's Invest AI program. The success of this event underscores France's position as one of the world's leaders in innovation and AI. On this occasion, the President of the Republic laid the foundation stone for a new building at the Gustave Roussy Institute, scheduled to open in late 2027. This building will be dedicated to cancer research, integrating AI and data analysis approaches. On May 19, the Choose France Summit held at the Château de Versailles welcomed a Kuwaiti delegation led by the Director General of the Kuwait Investment Authority, Sheikh Saud Abdulaziz Al Sabah. This annual event is a key moment for France, highlighting the country's growing attractiveness. With 53 investment announcements totaling €40.8 billion and the expected creation of over 13,000 jobs, the 2025 edition broke all previous records. Since 2018, Choose France has generated nearly €88 billion in investments, confirming the sustained confidence of investors in the French economic model. In 2024, France remained, for the sixth consecutive year, the leading European destination for foreign investment. Finally, on June 17 and 18, 2025, around twenty high-level Kuwaiti economic stakeholders participated in the Gulf Vision Forum in Paris. Gathering over 1,200 guests, this event fosters dialogue on key areas of economic cooperation between France and the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Nearly 2,000 business meetings were organized, leading to the identification of several concrete projects, particularly in the fields of water management, waste treatment, low-carbon energy, and digital transition. Q: Which sectors do you currently identify as priorities for further developing economic exchanges and cross-investments? A: The priorities defined by the Kuwait Vision 2035 and France 2030 plans now provide a clear framework for expanding our economic partnership. Several major French companies are already present and fully engaged in this dynamic. Their actions reflect a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the exchange of expertise. In Kuwait, as the country works to become a commercial and logistical hub under the Vision 2035 plan, the potential for cross-investment is immense. France is ready and determined to support Kuwait's ambitions, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, sustainable cities, and artificial intelligence. By aligning their ambitious visions, France and Kuwait can unlock truly transformative economic opportunities. At the same time, I welcome the growing interest shown by Kuwaiti investors in our country. Investment opportunities are currently being developed in these strategic sectors, illustrating the reciprocal nature of our economic relationship. The healthcare sector is also a key pillar of our cooperation. Cross-investment initiatives are being explored to support the modernization of healthcare systems and to foster joint efforts in medical research. Q: The energy transition is a shared priority for France and Kuwait. How can France support Kuwait in its economic diversification strategy, particularly in the fields of energy, technology, and sustainable cities? A: The energy transition and economic diversification are goals that France and Kuwait fully share. Our two countries have every interest in joining forces to address the challenges of decarbonization, technological innovation, and sustainable development. A significant step was taken in April 2024, during the official visit to Kuwait by Jean-Noël Barrot, our Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. On this occasion, a declaration of intent was signed between France and Kuwait to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, with a particular focus on the development of renewable energy sources. This agreement reflects our mutual commitment to establishing a long-term collaboration in this field. This cooperation fully aligns with the priorities outlined in the Vision 2035 plan, which places the energy transition at the heart of Kuwait's economic diversification strategy. Q: The healthcare sector appears to be attracting growing and mutual interest between France and Kuwait. What forms might this cooperation take in the coming years? A: Healthcare is a central pillar of our bilateral cooperation. I am pleased that France remains a preferred destination for Kuwaiti patients, particularly in the field of oncology. This reflects the strong trust Kuwait places in our healthcare system and our world-class medical institutions. We have recently taken an important step forward in our medical cooperation with the signing of several memorandums of understanding between the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health and French medical institutions. I am thinking in particular of the agreement signed on Feb 20, 2025, with the Gustave Roussy Institute, a global leader in cancer research and treatment. More recently, following the visit of His Highness the Amir to Paris, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health signed five cooperation agreements with leading French medical institutions. The goal of these agreements is to enhance local healthcare services through telemedicine, specialized consultations, and ongoing training for healthcare professionals. Both Heads of State reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening this cooperation by promoting the training of doctors and medical staff, the reception of patients in France, the improvement of hospital services, and the development of medical research. This dynamic is also supported by remarkable innovations. In July 2025, a remote surgery was successfully performed from Strasbourg by a Kuwaiti doctor on a patient located in Kuwait. This achievement highlights the ability of our two countries to combine medical excellence with technological innovation. France, a long-standing and trusted partner of Kuwait, is at the forefront of medical innovation. In 2025, we will host the 'Une seule santé' summit and the WHO Academy in Lyon. Q: Regarding cultural collaboration between our two countries, what role does the French Institute in Kuwait play in developing our bilateral relationship? Are there any new cultural or educational projects underway? A: The French Institute in Kuwait is at the heart of our cultural and educational relationship. It embodies France's intellectual, artistic, and linguistic presence in Kuwait and plays a central role in promoting French and Francophone culture. Every year, we organize numerous events there in partnership with our Kuwaiti counterparts. The Month of La Francophonie, which we celebrated last April, is a wonderful example. The high attendance at concerts, film screenings, debates, and literary evenings reflects the strong appeal of France and Francophone cultures in Kuwait. On Oct 2 and 3, 2024, we also organized two exceptional concerts by the Paris International Philharmonic Orchestra at the Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre (JACC), blending French and Kuwaiti repertoires. We are also working to strengthen ties between our civil societies, particularly through initiatives such as the Sorbonne Society, which aims to build networks of alumni, researchers, and professors between our two countries. Other projects are in development, notably in the fields of arts education, heritage, and scientific research. Since 2015, France has also been proud to host in Kuwait City the French Center for Research on the Arabian Peninsula (CEFREPA), our regional research hub. It plays a key role in our scientific cooperation. Notably, it coordinates two annual archaeological missions on Failaka Island, in partnership with the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL). The visit of His Highness the Amir to Paris on the occasion of France's National Day, July 14, 2024, gave new momentum to our cultural cooperation. On this occasion, a declaration of intent was signed by our Ministers of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of both Heads of State, to strengthen our partnership in this field. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to support and expand the reach of both the French Institute and CEFREPA. In the cultural field, our two countries will continue to prepare reciprocal visits and develop joint artistic projects, including the creation of a national orchestra based in Kuwait, as well as the implementation of training programs in museum studies, conservation, and cultural mediation. French museum expertise is thus available to help enhance Kuwait's heritage and improve public access to national and international collections, particularly at the Kuwait National Museum. Q: Is the teaching of French expanding in Kuwait? What initiatives are being undertaken to strengthen the presence of the French language and culture in the Kuwaiti educational system? A: The teaching of French is experiencing remarkable vitality in Kuwait. It was introduced into the school system as early as 1966 and is now the third most taught language in the country, after Arabic and English. I am pleased that nearly 1,400 teachers are transmitting it with talent and passion in both public and private school systems, which reflects the strong presence of our language in the Kuwaiti educational landscape. French is much more than a foreign language in Kuwait, it is a vehicle for dialogue, critical thinking, creativity, and the building of bridges between our two societies. The French Institute in Kuwait plays a key role in this dynamic. It promotes French language and culture in educational and academic contexts, working closely with the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education. Each year, numerous events such as 'Francophone Diwaniyas', film screenings, and conferences bring together francophones and francophiles to engage and exchange ideas. France can also count on the valuable commitment of the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, former Prime Minister of Kuwait and a passionate advocate for Francophonie. The unwavering support of other Francophone embassies and civil society also helps maintain a vibrant Francophone ecosystem, which is strengthened each year during the Month of La Francophonie. Francophonie celebrates cultural diversity and sharing through the French language, spoken by over 320 million people across five continents, including nearly 500,000 in Kuwait. Following the visit of His Highness the Amir to France, our Heads of State expressed their shared desire to strengthen the teaching of French in the Kuwaiti education system. The 2024 opening of a Bfi(French International Baccalaureate) section at the Lycée Français of Kuwait also reflects this ambitious vision. This bilingual French-English program of academic excellence will provide students with rigorous training, preparing them to join top universities worldwide. We are also continuing our efforts to enhance teacher training in French, expand student and academic mobility between our two countries, and update educational content in line with the aspirations of younger generations and the needs of the labor market. Q: Are there currently any scholarship programs or university cooperation initiatives between French and Kuwaiti institutions? A: University cooperation between France and Kuwait is advancing and part of a long-term vision. Many Kuwaiti students choose to pursue their university studies in France, particularly in fields of excellence such as engineering and medicine. In a globalized world where English is omnipresent, studying outside the Anglophone sphere provides a real comparative advantage and greater diversity. It also offers the opportunity to combine the benefits of multiple academic cultures and to develop a uniquely French sense of critical thinking. Today, our priority is to significantly increase the number of Kuwaitis studying in France. International academic experiences create lasting human bonds. When a Kuwaiti student discovers France, or when a French student experiences immersion in Kuwait, these encounters leave a deep and lasting impression. They foster a sincere connection to the host culture and help build bridges between our two countries. These exchanges represent a shared investment in the next generation and in their capacity to shape a common future for our nations. We therefore aim to reinforce this momentum by facilitating access to our top institutions such as Sciences Po, HEC, or CentraleSupélec. The development of English-language programs for non-French-speaking students is also a key strategy, enabling them to gradually learn French while continuing their academic studies. This ambition is supported by a scholarship program, in partnership with Campus France, and by promoting agreements between French and Kuwaiti institutions. During the visit of His Highness the Amir to France, our two countries expressed a joint intention to enhance student mobility, which could involve an increase in the number of Kuwaiti government scholarships directed toward France. Our shared goal is to attract more Kuwaiti students to fields of excellence and the future in France, particularly in innovative sectors such as artificial intelligence, technology, and ecological transition.
