Leaving with “part of my heart in Kuwait”

By Reaven D’Souza
Executive Managing Editor

In the three years since her arrival in Kuwait, French Ambassador H.E. Claire Le Flecher has left an indelible mark in diplomatic circles, as well as with the government and people of Kuwait for her unique all-round diplomacy and initiatives that have paved a new path of friendship between the two countries and people.

Ambassador Claire not only used diplomacy to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two friendly nations, but also, in making a real effort to reach out to the people of Kuwait, she strengthened the roots of this friendship at the people’s level. In addition, there were many first time initiatives during her tenure, as  she undertook the launch of Sorbonne Society in Kuwait, the Women’s Diwaniya, and the France-Kuwait Friendship Society among others.

The launch of the Sorbonne Society will go a long way in further bolstering academic and cultural bonds between Kuwait and France, it will help strengthen academic and cultural relations marking a historic moment for all lovers of French culture and education.

She was also optimistic that the launch of the French-Kuwait Friendship Association would become a major platform to bring together prominent actors in the private sector and civil society in both countries and develop meaningful long-term relationships and projects.

On the other hand her pioneering Women Diwaniya initiative was aimed to provide an inspiring and empowering platform for talented women to communicate, share their stories and build strong networks of solidarity. She hoped that this would increase the influence of Kuwaiti women in all sectors, paving the way for future generations to follow in their footsteps.

The affable ambassador won the hearts of the people of Kuwait with her easy going nature, accessibility and her ever smiling and charming disposition. In her farewell address Ambassador Claire echoed this sentiment stressing that Kuwait will remain in her heart and soul wherever she went. “The unique experience of working in Kuwait as my country’s ambassador, was full of inspiring encounters, fruitful challenges and unforgettable memories.,” she noted.

Her untiring efforts in development of relations between the two countries encompassed various fields,  including trade, investment, education and culture. During her tenure she was also able to elevate the French-Kuwaiti strategic dialogue to the level of a ministerial meeting in continuation of developing the strong bilateral relationship. She emphasized that France and Kuwait are partners in stability and security and share a lot in common and have much to build together on.

In her observations on Kuwait’s diplomacy she pointed at the permanency of Kuwaiti diplomacy and its constant emphasis on dialogue, negotiation and the search for solutions. She stated that the French government also highly appreciated the speed and clarity of the positions taken by the Kuwaiti authorities in international forums.

When it came to diplomacy, Ambassador Claire left no stone unturned, she used the Gout de France/Good France initiative of food diplomacy to promote French gastronomy with cooking workshops to promote French cuisine. There were also other areas of cooperation, ranging from defense, sports, health, climate change to branded French luxury goods.

“As I leave Kuwait, I carry with me countless memories and lasting friendships. I have had the honor of serving as the Ambassador of France to the State of Kuwait for three years, and rest assured that I will always remain an ardent advocate for strengthening French-Kuwaiti friendship, wherever I am.”

The ambassador praised the efforts of the embassy team, members, committed partners and all the Kuwaitis who welcomed her and her son with open arms, saying, “You have made this mission more than just a job, you have made it a unique life experience.”

She added, “Even though it is very difficult for me to leave Kuwait, I feel at peace, and I know that the projects we have started will continue to flourish, with the support of all of you, who are so passionate and committed to the friendship of France and Kuwait.” She continued, “So thank you again for these wonderful and unforgettable years. It has been an honor to serve as the Ambassador of France to the State of Kuwait.”

In conclusion, as she embarks on her new role in the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Le Flecher noted, “I will return to Paris and leave a part of my heart here, but I will also take a part of Kuwait with me to France and rest assured that wherever I go in the future, I will always keep Kuwait in my heart, my soul and my spirit.”

Ambassador Le Flecher leaves behind a legacy not only of strengthened bonds of friendship between the two nations but also of trust, goodwill and loyalty that will hopefully be the new foundations of French-Kuwait diplomatic ties.