Gouffran: Deep-rooted human and cultural ties unite Kuwait and France
“Al-Qabida” renews partnership with the French Institute
Olivier Goffin, the French Ambassador to Kuwait, affirmed that the continued cooperation between Al-Qabida Group and the French Institute in Kuwait contributes to strengthening the presence of French culture and cultural dialogue. He praised the deep-rooted human and cultural ties linking Kuwait and France.
This statement was made during the signing of a new agreement between Al-Qabida Group and the French Institute, through which the group renewed its commitment to supporting the Institute’s cultural and educational activities. The agreement was signed by Sheikh Mubarak Abdullah Al-Sabah, Vice Chairman of the Group’s Board of Directors, and Souleya Saad, the French Embassy’s Cultural Cooperation and Action Advisor and Director of the Institute, in the presence of Ambassador Goffin.
Goffin expressed his gratitude for the continued support of Sheikh Mubarak and the Group for the Institute, emphasizing that the close relationship that has linked the family and the Group to France and French culture over many years reflects the depth of the ties between the two countries.
A Distinguished Institution
For his part, Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah expressed his pride in the Group’s continued support of the French Institute as a Platinum Sponsor, voicing his hope to continue supporting its events and activities.
He noted that the Institute has undergone significant development since his last visit, adding that its importance extends beyond its building and facilities to include its staff and their role in promoting French and Francophone culture.
He added that the Institute represents a distinguished cultural institution serving successive generations, pointing out that his mother was among its early patrons when it was known as the “Voltaire Institute,” reflecting its deep presence in Kuwaiti society across multiple generations.
He expressed his hope for the success of the new cultural season, noting upcoming joint events and projects, and reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to continuing its support for the Institute’s mission and serving French culture and French speakers in Kuwait.
Teaching French
For her part, Souleya Saad, Director of the Institute, affirmed that Kuwaiti-French cultural relations are based on a solid friendship and long-term cooperation. She noted that the Group’s support, as a Platinum Partner, contributes to organizing concerts, cultural events, and Francophone activities, as well as supporting French language teaching programs, examinations, and accredited certifications.
She explained that the cultural cooperation agreement dates back to 1969, and that thousands of students have learned French through the Institute since then. She added that the Institute receives hundreds of Kuwaiti students, while its network of alumni includes doctors, lawyers, and military personnel. She also noted that cooperation between the two countries extends to scientific research and archaeology, highlighting decades of continuous collaboration in archaeological missions, particularly on Failaka Island.
