French Ambassador Olivier Guévenoux writes: France and Kuwait – 65 Years of Friendship and Partnership
As France celebrates its national holiday this week, I would like to share some reflections on the friendship that unites our two countries. In 2026, we will mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Kuwait. These sixty-five years represent a milestone in a friendship that has grown stronger and deeper over time. Over these decades, our countries have undergone profound transformations witnessed across the region and the world, and we have worked together to address the challenges posed by these shifts, defending our nations and adhering to our shared core values. In times of peace, we have consistently strengthened our partnership across its key pillars: political and diplomatic cooperation, security and defense, culture, education, and scientific research, as well as economic and trade relations. Allow me to highlight some of the key milestones—among many others—that embody this distinguished journey:
- On August 28, 1961: France officially recognized the State of Kuwait and opened a commercial mission there, before appointing its first resident ambassador to Kuwait in July 1968.
- In 1969: Our two countries signed an agreement for cooperation in the fields of education, culture, and scientific research, which later led to the establishment of the “Voltaire Institute,” known since 2012 as the “French Institute in Kuwait.”
- In 1983: The first French archaeological mission began its work on Failaka Island, and French archaeological excavations continue there to this day through two scientific teams.
- In 2015: The French Center for Research on the Arabian Peninsula (CFRPA) established its headquarters in Kuwait. This scientific institution coordinates French research in archaeology and social sciences across the region.
- In 2025: Exactly one year ago, His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, paid an official visit to Paris. On July 14, His Highness attended the military parade marking the French National Day, before being received by the French President at the Élysée Palace for a lunch characterized by warmth and rich discussion.
As with any genuine friendship, Franco-Kuwaiti relations have also strengthened during times of crisis. In 1991, approximately 18,000 French soldiers participated in Operation Daguet to contribute to the liberation of Kuwait, fighting side by side with their brothers in the Kuwaiti Armed Forces. The following year, in 1992, the two countries signed a defense cooperation agreement, which was subsequently updated in 2009.
A few months ago, amid the outbreak of a major regional crisis with global repercussions, France swiftly supported its partner Kuwait and its Gulf partners. France was among the first European countries to provide military support to intercept hostile attacks in defense of its regional partners. In implementing our defense partnership, we rapidly deployed personnel and equipment, particularly in the fields of air defense and counter-drone operations. France also reinforced its military presence in the region by deploying more than 4,000 troops across land, sea, and air in less than ten days, including a naval combat group centered around the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
This military presence was accompanied by a steadfast political stance calling for dialogue, de-escalation, and a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. France’s position remained purely defensive, reflecting its role as a balancing force seeking to enhance stability. Simultaneously, France acted on the diplomatic front, both at the United Nations and through intensive communications between the French leadership and regional leaders. During the crisis, President Emmanuel Macron held two telephone conversations with His Highness the Emir of Kuwait. Additionally, several communications took place between the foreign and defense ministers of both countries.
At the international level, France, in cooperation with the United Kingdom, launched the Hormuz Initiative, aimed at providing an organized diplomatic response to the closure of the strait and working to reopen it, based on three fundamental principles: respect for the law of the sea, guaranteeing freedom of navigation, and rejecting any attempt to impose exclusive control over the Strait of Hormuz.
My message to our friends in Kuwait is clear and simple: France will continue to stand by Kuwait, as a reliable, stable, and responsive partner committed to supporting the security and stability of the region.
Olivier Goffani
French Ambassador
