Emmanuel Macron, President of France, will begin his official meeting with Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, on Monday. This meeting is considered a milestone in the 65 years of bilateral relations between Kuwait and France, based on mutual respect and cooperation in common areas.
History of Relations Between the Two Countries
The relations between Kuwait and France have steadily expanded over the years. These relations have particularly developed in the fields of politics, economy, military, education, culture, health care, and scientific research. France recognized Kuwait's independence on August 28, 1961, and officially established diplomatic relations in 1967.
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France's Support During Crises
Kuwait greatly appreciates France's support during the Iraqi invasion in August 1990. At that time, François Mitterrand, the then President of France, declared that "Kuwait's sovereignty is non-negotiable" and decided to send about 18,000 French soldiers to assist in liberating the country.
Recent reciprocal visits between the leaders of the two countries and high-ranking officials have strengthened relations. On July 13, 2025, Sheikh Mishal traveled to France, where he discussed expanding economic, diplomatic, and military cooperation with Macron and coordinating efforts to address regional crises. During this visit, the two sides signed a declaration on strategic investment cooperation between Kuwait and France for the years 2025 to 2035.
France is recognized as one of the key international investors in Kuwait in the fields of energy, infrastructure, and cosmetics. French companies constitute about 50 percent of the European companies operating in Kuwait, and economic cooperation between the two countries has been strengthened by the signing of several agreements.
In the health sector, Kuwait's Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Gustave Roussy Cancer Center in France in February 2025 to develop healthcare services in Kuwait. Additionally, the two countries have signed agreements in scientific and cultural fields to increase the number of Kuwaiti students in France and promote cultural activities.
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