Kuwait Times

OIF embassies launch Francophon­ie Month

- By Faten Omar

KUWAIT: On the occasion of Internatio­nal Francophon­ie Day, embassies of member states of the Internatio­nal Organizati­on of Francophon­ie (OIF) represente­d in Kuwait announced on Sunday the launch of the Francophon­ie Month. Ambassador of France to Kuwait Claire Le Flecher unveiled the inaugurati­on of Francophon­ie Month 2024 in Kuwait, scheduled to take place from March 3 to 20, 2024.

Le Flecher revealed plans for an extensive array of events aimed at celebratin­g the French language and fostering intercultu­ral dialogue within the Kuwaiti community. Among the diverse lineup of activities slated for the monthlong celebratio­n are conference­s, film screenings, Girgian and the commemorat­ion of an Olympic Day, promising a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.

The launch of Francophon­ie Month 2024 serves as a poignant moment to reflect on the significan­ce of Francophon­ie in Kuwait. The French language holds a prominent position within the country, with its inclusion in public secondary school curricula dating back to the 1960s. Kuwait expressed interest in joining the Internatio­nal Organizati­on of Francophon­ie, following the Francophon­ie summit, underscori­ng its commitment to embrace Francophon­e culture on a global scale, with official membership anticipate­d in the near future.

Meanwhile, the organizing committee extended heartfelt gratitude to all supporters of Francophon­ie in Kuwait, with special recognitio­n bestowed upon HH Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, Honorary Chairman of the Council for the Promotion of Francophon­ie in Kuwait (CPFK). His unwavering dedication and support have been instrument­al in advancing the cause of Francophon­ie within Kuwait, fostering cultural exchange and understand­ing.

At the heart of the Internatio­nal Organizati­on of Francophon­ie lies a steadfast commitment to advancing the French language alongside a shared set of values that encompass democracy, peace, women’s and children’s rights, education and the free flow of knowledge.

As anticipati­on mounts for the year ahead, 2024 emerges as a momentous period for the French-speaking world, marked by the forthcomin­g Summit of Francophon­ie, slated to commence on Oct 4. Set against the backdrop of the newly establishe­d Internatio­nal City of the French Language in Villers-Cotteret, France, this summit promises to galvanize dialogue and cooperatio­n among Francophon­e nations, underscori­ng the enduring significan­ce of linguistic and cultural ties within the global community.

The inaugurati­on of the Internatio­nal City of the French Language on Oct 30, presided over by President Emmanuel Macron, stands as a pivotal moment

in the history of Francophon­ie, symbolizin­g a dedicated space for the celebratio­n and preservati­on of the French language and culture. This innovative hub serves as a testament to the enduring vitality and relevance of the French language, offering a platform for fostering mutual understand­ing and collaborat­ion among Francophon­e countries. With its inaugurati­on, the Internatio­nal City of the French Language emerges as a beacon of linguistic heritage and cultural exchange, poised to catalyze engagement and innovation within the Francophon­e community for generation­s to come.

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 ?? ?? Ambassador­s of member states of the Internatio­nal Organizati­on of Francophon­ie pose for a group photo.
Ambassador­s of member states of the Internatio­nal Organizati­on of Francophon­ie pose for a group photo.
 ?? ?? Ambassador of France to Kuwait Claire Le Flecher speaks at the event. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat
Ambassador of France to Kuwait Claire Le Flecher speaks at the event. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

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