-
“The French government has initiated a global effort to unite France’s alumni networks, fostering connections between graduates and their country’s economic, cultural, and academic entities,” said H.E. Claire Le Flécher, French Ambassador to Kuwait.
-
Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser encouraged everyone to seize all the opportunities offered by the Sorbonne Society of Kuwait, stating, “Engage in activities, participate in discussions, and do not hesitate to present your own ideas and initiatives.”
-
“Today, we are launching a unique initiative to forge an academic and cultural link between Kuwait and France. Our goal is to unite professionals from diverse academic backgrounds and fields to promote international cooperation,” said Dr. Bashayer Al-Majid.
H.E. Claire Le Flécher, French Ambassador to Kuwait, inaugurated the “Sorbonne Society in Kuwait” in the presence of honorary president Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser, association founder Dr Bashayer Al-Majid, Assistant Foreign Minister for Europe Affairs Sadiq Marafi, and several accredited ambassadors and diplomats. The event celebrated the university’s longstanding presence in Kuwait.
Al-Nasser emphasized that “this event marks a significant milestone in bolstering academic and cultural bonds between Kuwait and France, and stands as a historic moment for all enthusiasts of French culture and education.”
He expressed gratitude to Dr. Bashayer Al-Majid for initiating the Sorbonne Society in Kuwait and to all contributors to the project, stating, “Your dedication and enthusiasm have made today possible. I extend my thanks to our colleagues and friends who supported this initiative wholeheartedly.”
He added, “I earned a doctorate in political science from Pantheon-Sorbonne University, and the launch of this association holds particular significance for me. My academic journey in France—from learning the French language to obtaining my doctorate—was a wonderful experience marked by academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and cultural enrichment. The years spent in Bordeaux, Besançon, Strasbourg, and finally in Paris allowed me to appreciate the beauty and vitality of these cities, as well as the richness and diversity of the French university system. These experiences deeply enriched my perspective, shaped my understanding of France and the world, and strengthened my commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.”
He continued, “The Sorbonne, with its rich and ancient heritage, has always been a beacon of knowledge, culture, and critical thinking,” emphasizing that “through the inauguration of this association, we are not only taking a step towards spreading these values in Kuwait, but also opening the door for fruitful intellectual exchange and dynamic academic cooperation. Our goal is to create a space where inquiring minds can meet, exchange ideas, and explore new horizons. The Sorbonne Society in Kuwait will be a hub for dialogue, discovery, and exchange, enriching the knowledge and experiences of each member.”
Strengthening global ties with alumni
Ambassador Le Flécher remarked, “The French government has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at uniting France’s alumni networks worldwide, fostering connections between graduates and their country’s economic, cultural, and academic entities. This initiative reflects France’s commitment to strengthening ties with its former students globally.”
She continued, “The French Institute in Kuwait and the French Embassy have actively supported this endeavor by identifying and assembling French alumni in Kuwait, who cherish fond memories of their educational experiences in France. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Bashayer Al-Majid, a distinguished graduate of Sorbonne University Paris and a Professor of Law at both Oxford University and Kuwait University, whose vision has brought this ambitious project to fruition.”
The French ambassador praised her, saying, “You have shown exceptional dedication to promoting Kuwait internationally, often courageously defending France in challenging media situations. I recall our first meeting two years ago, when you presented your idea of the Sorbonne. Through hard work, perseverance, and conviction, you successfully united efforts and made today’s launch of the Sorbonne Society possible. Your collaboration with Sorbonne management in Paris, engagement with French graduates in Kuwait, and coordination with embassy teams had been commendable. I am delighted to recognize and congratulate you on this significant achievement, which further strengthens the already robust bonds of friendship between France and Kuwait.”
The ambassador addressed Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser, saying, “Allow me also to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. You are a prominent political figure in Kuwait, a former Foreign Minister, and a recipient of the Legion of Honour. Your esteemed reputation is also highly regarded in France; Jean-Yves Le Drian continues to speak highly of you to this day.”
Engaging in activities
Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser encouraged everyone to seize all the opportunities offered by the Sorbonne Society of Kuwait, stating, “Engage in activities, participate in discussions, and do not hesitate to present your own ideas and initiatives. As Mary Curie, Nobel laureate and Sorbonne alumna, once said: “We must be persistent and, above all, self-confident… Together, we will build a stimulating and enriching environment.”
Commitment to Francophonie
Ambassador Le Flécher addressed Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Nasser, saying, “You are deeply committed to Francophonie, following in the footsteps of your father, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad. Having studied at several French universities, including Purdue University, Strasbourg, and Panthéon-Sorbonne, your steadfast dedication to French-Kuwaiti relations is a source of invaluable strength and support. When Dr. Bashayer Al-Majid and I approached you to become the Honorary President of the Sorbonne, you accepted with enthusiasm, and for that, I would like to warmly thank you.”
In turn, Dr. Bashayer Al-Majid said, “Today, we are launching a unique initiative to forge an academic and cultural link between Kuwait and France. Our goal is to unite professionals from diverse academic backgrounds and fields to promote international cooperation. By combining our expertise, we aim to create opportunities for scientific, cultural, and academic advancement. Through conferences, workshops, and exhibitions, we will provide platforms for exchanging ideas and showcasing collaborative endeavors.”
“This association will serve as a vital hub for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Let us embrace a spirit of cooperation, and I am confident that the Sorbonne Society will flourish as a center of knowledge and progress,” she continued.
