By Tareq Yousef AlShumaimry
Former Secretary-General of the Commercial Arbitration Centre of the Gulf Cooperation Council
The official visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to the French Republic on Sunday, 13 July will mark a historic milestone in relations between the two friendly countries. The visit highlights the robust diplomatic ties and ongoing cooperation and coordination between Kuwait and France, and comes at a time when the region is undergoing profound geopolitical and economic transformations.
The visit of His Highness the Amir, which coincides with the celebrations being held to mark the 236th anniversary of Bastille Day, the French National Day, underlines the generational partnership, trust, and solidarity that transcends geographic borders. The visit also reflects the aspirations on both sides to expand bilateral ties and overcome challenges in various fields, as well as build a legacy of cooperation and shared vision for future generations.
During the visit, His Highness the Amir and French President Emmanuel Macron are slated to preside over the signing of several memoranda of understandings (MoU) in various domains. France is a major investor in Kuwait’s energy, infrastructure, transport, health, and cosmetic sectors, with the number of French companies operating in Kuwait accounting for nearly half of all European companies.
The diplomatic relationship between Kuwait and France is rooted in mutual respect, strategic interests, and a shared commitment to international peace and security. Over the decades, bilateral ties have developed across political, economic, military, and cultural dimensions, creating a partnership that continues to evolve.
France was among the first Western nations to establish diplomatic relations with Kuwait, officially recognizing the country shortly after its independence and deputing an envoy to Kuwait in August1961, and formalizing diplomatic ties in 1967. This early recognition laid the foundation for a long-standing relationship built on trust, cooperation and friendship that has withstood the tests over the decades.
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