French envoy says, Kuwait-France ties are exceptional, strong, distinguished

The French Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E.Olivier Guitton, says the strong bilateral relations between France and Kuwait, are “exceptional” and underscored the mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation across various sectors.

His remarks came during a media briefing on the sidelines of a seminar hosted at his residence under the theme: “Artificial Intelligence: A Catalyst for Women’s Success.” The event brought together speakers and guests from diverse fields to highlight the growing role of artificial intelligence and how women are leading its applications in finance, fashion, and investment.

Ambassador Guitton recalled the visit of the French Foreign Minister to Kuwait on April 24, and shared that President Emmanuel Macron has extended an invitation to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait to visit France this year, expressing hope that the visit will take place soon — possibly with the Crown Prince accompanying him.

“We have substantial cooperation in many fields,” he said, referencing a recent AI summit held in Paris that saw strong Kuwaiti participation. “Just two days ago, we concluded a very successful archaeological mission, further reflecting the richness of our cooperation, which also extends to education, science, law, and culture,” the French envoy said.

On defense and security cooperation, Guitton emphasized the solid foundation between the two nations, rooted in their alliance during the Gulf War.

“This history has fostered fertile ground for expanding our cooperation,” he noted, citing recent joint military exercises held in Kuwait and ongoing training programs for Kuwaiti forces in France — including French language courses and mutual visits.

While there are no new military contracts currently, Guitton pointed to a significant past deal involving the purchase of 30 French Caracal helicopters, now operational in Kuwait, describing it as a milestone in bilateral defense ties.

The French envoy lauded Kuwait’s constructive role in promoting regional stability, noting that its approach mirrors France’s commitment to international law, dialogue, and opposition to the use of force or violations of humanitarian principles.

Regarding the Baghdad Summit, in which France participated, he said, “It was a crucial regional meeting. For France, dialogue and diplomacy should always prevail over violence or armed confrontation. Baghdad served as an important platform to promote that message.”

He announced an upcoming international summit in New York this June, co-organized by France and Saudi Arabia, aimed at advancing a political solution to the Palestinian crisis, is a top priority for France and its allies.

“President Macron is expected to attend, and while final details are still being worked out, the summit will likely be held at the highest level,” he added.

“Now more than ever, we need a global mobilization to address the tragic situation in Gaza and Palestine,” he said.

Regarding Syria, Guitton clarified that France has focused on supporting the Syrian people rather than the regime or factions, advocating for an inclusive political transition.

“Just two weeks ago,” he said, “President Macron invited Syria’s new leader to Paris, reinforcing our commitment to political dialogue and ensuring our priorities are heard.”

On visa services, Guitton shared that the French consulate currently processes around 250 visa applications daily, with a small but dedicated team.

“Wait times are about a month, and while we can’t reduce them further right now, it’s still an improvement compared to past years,” he explained, urging travelers to plan early — especially during the busy summer season.

In 2024, France issued 36,000 visas to Kuwaiti applicants, compared to 42,000 in 2023, he disclosed.

Speaking on economic ties, the French envoy noted ongoing collaboration with Kuwaiti partners, especially in the aviation sector.

He recently visited Toulouse for the delivery of a new Airbus A321 to Kuwait Airways, which he described as a symbol of the long-standing partnership. “Airbus has been supplying aircraft to Kuwait for over 40 years. That’s a major achievement.”

The ambassador reaffirmed France’s commitment to ethical and inclusive technological cooperation, highlighting the AI for Good Summit held earlier this year in Paris. He applauded the active participation of Kuwait’s Minister of Communications with his delegation, emphasizing that such involvement reflects Kuwait’s dedication to strategic AI development.

The seminar also coincided with Kuwaiti Women’s Day on May 16, and Guitton used the occasion to pay tribute, saying, “I extend my warmest greetings to all Kuwaiti women for their remarkable achievements and contributions across all fields.

This event is an opportunity to honor their growing role in shaping the future of innovation—especially in AI, where inclusion and diversity are essential to achieving responsible, sustainable progress.”