Kuwait, a vibrant hub for Francophone values and cultural dialogue, says Polish Ambassador
Kuwaiti Diwaniya serves as a unique space for societal dialogue and fostering ongoing cooperation between France and Kuwait across multiple levels -- Bessam Khadraoui
The Times Kuwait Report
- Curie’s famous quote, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood,” underscores the enduring role of culture and science as a bridge for understanding among peoples.
The Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kuwait, in cooperation with the French Institute, celebrated shared Francophone heritage through a cultural event and special exhibition honoring the renowned Polish-French scientist Marie Skłodowska-Curie.
The event highlighted Kuwait’s position as a center for cultural dialogue and openness, bringing together Francophiles, diplomats, and cultural figures in an atmosphere emphasizing Kuwait’s vital role in hosting intellectual and cultural initiatives that foster understanding between nations.
During the occasion, Poland’s Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Michał Cholewa, emphasized that Kuwait’s hosting of such cultural events reflects its deep commitment to promoting dialogue, diversity, and openness. He noted that the Francophone space serves as a unifying platform for values such as peace, solidarity, human rights, and equality.
The Ambassador highlighted that honoring Maria Salomea Skłodowska Curie, better known as Marie Curie, recognizes her as an exceptional figure symbolizing the historical and cultural bonds between Poland and France.
He noted that she was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win twice in two different scientific fields, with discoveries that fundamentally transformed modern science.
Born in Warsaw, Curie found in France a space for intellectual freedom and scientific creativity, making the French language more than a means of communication but a gateway to the world. Her scientific and cultural legacy continues to resonate today. The Ambassador also praised the French Institute in Kuwait for its active role in promoting Francophone cultural life through educational programs and diverse activities.
In closing, Ambassador Cholewa expressed gratitude to attendees, diplomats, and cultural institutions, wishing everyone an enriching evening that strengthens bridges of communication and understanding between nations.
For his part, Bessam Khadraoui, Deputy Head of the French Mission in Kuwait, highlighted the importance of the Kuwaiti Diwaniya as a unique space for societal dialogue and fostering ongoing cooperation between France and Kuwait across multiple levels.
He praised the Polish Ambassador’s role in strengthening Francophone ties and lauded the outstanding organization of the event in collaboration with the French Institute.
Khadraoui noted that the exhibition dedicated to Marie Skłodowska-Curie reflects the strength of cultural and scientific relations between France and Poland, showcasing the power of Francophonie to unite cultures, advance science, and foster solidarity.
He also spotlighted Curie’s contributions, including the naming of the first discovered element, Polonium, in honor of her homeland, and her role in establishing French science as a global model.
He encouraged the audience to explore the cultural programs and courses offered by the French Institute in Kuwait, reflecting the continuity and vitality of Francophonie in the region.
The evening concluded with Curie’s famous quote: “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood,” underscoring the enduring role of culture and science as a bridge for understanding among peoples.
