The organizing committee reported that Sheikh Nasser opened the inaugural event at the Capital Mall in the presence of French Ambassador Olivier Gauvin along with ministers, sheikhs, heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of French companies and public figures. Sheikh Nasser toured the various pavilions that feature French expertise and products. The exhibition runs for three days and concludes on Friday.
A statement from the organizing committee placed the timing of the French Week immediately after French President Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Kuwait on October 19. That visit produced multiple agreements and memorandums of understanding covering defense, the economy, scientific research, education and cultural cooperation. The pacts underscore the momentum in bilateral ties that began with the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1961.
Ahmed Ismail Behbehani, chairman of the organizing committee, said in a statement that patronage of the event by Sheikh Nasser reflects the depth and history of Kuwaiti-French relations. Behbehani added that the ties rest on solid foundations of friendship and comprehensive cooperation across political, economic, military, cultural and educational domains. He pointed to the Amir’s visit to France in July 2025 and Macron’s recent trip as demonstrations of the shared will to strengthen partnership at all levels.
French companies operating in Kuwait joined prominent international brands in the exhibition, according to the organizing committee’s inventory of participants. The displays cover culture, automotive industries, high-technology sectors, institutional development, culinary arts and education. Organizers described the week as a key platform to introduce French capabilities and foster new opportunities for institutions and businesses in both countries.
Sheikh Nasser has promoted Francophone culture in Kuwait since the 1980s and was named honorary president of the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie in Kuwait, French ambassadors noted in earlier statements. Kuwaiti schools have taught French as the third language since 1966 with roughly 30,000 learners each year across different educational systems. The current event builds on that record as part of anniversary activities that include further cultural programming by the French Institute.
Ambassador Gauvin stated that the launch of the France in Kuwait exhibition embodies the solidity and depth of the strategic partnership between the two countries. He noted that the partnership has evolved through decades of joint work to advance prosperity, security and shared interests. The exhibition forms one element of broader celebrations for the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
