Amir’s France visit to bolster historic partnership and strategic cooperation

The French Presidency (Élysée) affirmed that the official visit of His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, to the French Republic holds special significance, as it marks His Highness’s first state visit to France since assuming office.

In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) today, the Élysée Palace described the visit as a strong reflection of the enduring and historic relationship between the two friendly nations. It emphasized that the visit would serve to deepen the distinguished and comprehensive partnership and reaffirm the shared determination to strengthen cooperation across a broad range of sectors.

The Élysée further highlighted that this visit takes place within a context of long-standing mutual trust and respect, underscoring both nations’ commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership in critical areas such as diplomacy, defense, trade, education, health, culture, and scientific research.

The French Presidency characterized the visit as an important occasion to renew the deep historical ties between Kuwait and France and to confirm their mutual resolve to develop this relationship in a way that serves their common interests. The visit also provides a platform to intensify bilateral dialogue and coordination, especially in addressing major regional and global challenges.

His Highness the Amir’s itinerary in Paris includes his attendance at the official military parade commemorating Bastille Day (July 14) alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. This will be followed by a high-level meeting and working luncheon at the Élysée Palace on Monday, where both leaders will discuss key strategic and regional issues.

Kuwaiti-French relations are rooted in a decades-long friendship, with France having been among the first countries to recognize Kuwait’s independence. France also played a pivotal role in Kuwait’s liberation during the 1991 Gulf War, actions that solidified deep political trust and laid the groundwork for continued diplomatic and economic engagement.

The two countries maintain regular high-level engagements and collaborate closely in international forums, where they often align on key global issues. Both nations advocate for international law, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and robust support for dialogue and mediation initiatives.

On the economic front, bilateral trade between Kuwait and France reached approximately €2.8 billion (US$3.27 billion) in 2023, with France ranking as Kuwait’s fourth-largest European trading partner. French companies are actively involved in major infrastructure, energy, and construction projects in Kuwait, reinforcing the economic partnership.

In the field of culture and education, France remains a key supporter of the French language and cultural presence in Kuwait, notably through the French Institute and the French School, which serve over 1,000 students. Kuwaiti students also participate in a variety of academic and university programs in France, further fostering educational exchange.

France’s contribution extends to the health sector as well. Renowned institutions such as the Gustave Roussy Institute are engaged in offering technical consultations and specialized medical cooperation, highlighting an expanding partnership in public services and human development.

His Highness the Amir is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Minister of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya, and Director-General of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) Sheikh Dr. Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, alongside several senior government officials.

Both nations view this visit as a reaffirmation of their shared strategic vision, aimed at reinforcing regional stability and global cooperation. The evolving Kuwait-France relationship continues to serve as a model for long-standing, multidimensional partnerships built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peace and development.