Latest news with #NasserAl-Mohammad
Arab Times
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Francophonie month ends on high note in Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY, May 1: The 'Francophonie Month 2025' closing ceremony was held recently under the patronage and in the presence of Honorary President of the Council for the Promotion of Francophonie in Kuwait (CPFK) His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad. In his speech on the auspicious occasion, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad underscored the importance of the event, expressing his pride in participating in it in appreciation of the cultural role played by Francophonie. He highlighted its notable contribution to contemporary global culture and its vital role in promoting dialogue and cultural diversity in a world rapidly moving toward globalization. He affirmed 'the French language occupies a prominent position in the world of thought and culture; characterized by its clarity, delicateness and logical precision. These characteristics have made it a popular language in the fields of Philosophy, Law and Diplomacy. Since the 17th century, it has been supported by the efforts of the Académie Française to standardize the language.' He pointed out that French is a refined and melodious language deeply intertwined with the artistic expressions of poetry, song and storytelling. It helped express complex philosophical ideas in an understandable language, facilitating their dissemination during the Age of Enlightenment. He stressed that Francophonie played a distinctive role in enriching Arab culture, especially since French was the official language of European culture from the 17th century until the end of the 19th century. He said that intellectual, political and diplomatic elites used it as a means of dialogue and openness; adding that it was used by kings, ambassadors and non-native thinkers, most notably the Enlightenment philosophers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Diderot, Montesquieu and Pascal. He continued saying that the French language played a major role in spreading the concepts of rationalism, politics and human rights; and clearly contributed to the emergence of modern concepts like the social contract, individual freedom and separation of powers. He stated that these concepts were first formulated in French before being translated into the rest of Europe's languages. He added the French language has produced a rich world literature, ranging from novels like those of Balzac and Flaubert, to theater such as those of Molière and Corneille, and poetry such as those of Baudelaire and Rimbaud. He asserted that French literature has won the largest number of Nobel Prizes and has a prominent presence in the arts, fashion and cinema; ranging from Impressionism and painting to pioneering French cinema. He emphasized that Francophonie is not merely a means of communication, but rather a carrier of cultural heritage and concepts that have shaped modern western consciousness. He described French as 'the language of reason and beauty' for its phonetic elegance and philosophical and poetic vocabulary. 'The language is still used in international forums and centers of intellectual and legal legislation, most notably the United Nations and the International Organization of La Francophonie. Kuwait is keen on providing all the necessary facilities to support Francophonie, as it has always been an incubator for culture and arts in the region. Its doors will remain open for the exchange of knowledge and cultural cooperation with various French-speaking countries,' he stressed. He pointed out that the French language, with its long history, is present on all continents -- from Asia to Africa, from Canada in the North to Haiti in the South, and even New Caledonia and Tahiti in the Pacific Ocean, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon in the Atlantic Ocean. He wished it further spread and prosperity until it reaches the North and South Poles. His Highness concluded his speech by conveying feelings of friendship and celebration to all French-speaking peoples, extending his thanks to the ambassadors of the member states of the Francophonie Organization for their participation in this celebration and praising the successful organization of the evening. On the other hand, French Ambassador to Kuwait Olivier Gauvin, said 'thanks to the collective efforts of the members of the Council for the Promotion of La Francophonie -- 44 ambassadors -- and our partners. We held an exceptional celebration that coincided with the announcement of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media.' He asserted that La Francophonie promotes the values of participation and cultural diversity. He said the French language -- which is spoken by more than 320 million people in 130 countries, including 500,000 in Kuwait -- is considered a tool for building bridges between cultures and promoting dialogue and exchange. He stated that around 50,000 students in Kuwaiti public schools learn French annually, reflecting the growing local interest in the language. He then quoted French writer and Nobel laureate Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio, stating, 'Francophonie is a space for dialogue and exchange, a place where cultures meet.' Addressing His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad, he said; You are the father of Francophonie in Kuwait. You took the initiative to support it in the 1980s. On this occasion, the Council for the Promotion of Francophone Languages in Kuwait unanimously chose you as its honorary president. So, Your Highness, allow me to reiterate by deep gratitude to you.'
Arab Times
06-03-2025
- General
- Arab Times
Dar Jaber Diwan receives Ramadan well-wishers
KUWAIT CITY, Mar 5: The sons of HH the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah hosted a gathering at Dar Jaber Diwaniya in Zahraa to receive Ramadan greetings. His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad, other royal family members, social figures, ambassadors, members of diplomatic missions and citizens attended the event. Sheikhs Mubarak, Dr. Salem, Ali Al-Jaber and their brothers warmly welcomed the guests; extending Ramadan greetings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti people and all residents of Kuwait. They offered prayers for the holy month to bring goodness, blessings and prosperity to Kuwait, its leadership and people, the Arab and Islamic nations and the rest of the world
Arab Times
18-02-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
British Week marks 64 years of Kuwait Independence with historic exhibition
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 18: His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad inaugurated the 12th British Week in Kuwait Exhibition at Assima Mall on Monday in the presence of British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad, Sheikh Ali Al-Jaber, Sheikh Mubarak Faisal Al-Saud, Sheikh Amir Al- Malik, and Capital Governor Sheikh Abdullah Salem Al-Ali. Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad visited the exhibition, which showcases many sectors like the British industries, cars, aviation and schools, as well as world-famous brands. Lewis said 'We are proud to participate in the 12th trade exhibition entitled, 'Britain in Kuwait'. It celebrates the ongoing friendship and strong relations between our two countries. I urge everyone to visit the exhibition and learn about the pavilions that highlight many areas of cooperation between the United Kingdom and Kuwait, starting from trade and investment to culture and innovation. The British community is proud of its contribution to the development of Kuwait. We look forward to strengthening our partnership in the coming years.' Chairman of the organizing committee Ahmed Behbehani pointed out that 'His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad's patronage of the event confirms the deep and historic Kuwaiti-British relations, in addition to his commitment to support events and activities that deepen historical ties with Britain.' He added 'the Kuwaiti-British relations that extend for 250 years embody a distinctive model of relations built on solid foundations and based on historical friendship. It was crowned by the signing of the Kuwaiti-British Treaty of 1899 by HH the late Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah. The treaty confirmed the independence of Kuwaiti decision-making and kept Kuwait away from major international conflicts.' He stated that the 12th British Week in Kuwait has special importance as it coincides with the 64th anniversary of Independence Day and 34th Liberation Day of Kuwait; making it an extraordinary occasion for all participants in this event. He added the exhibition is considered one of the most important economic activities this year, as it represents the historical relationship between the United Kingdom and Kuwait. He said the success of previous sessions greatly contributed to the increasing demand for British and Kuwaiti participation in this economic event. 'We cannot forget the historical position of the United Kingdom during the brutal Iraqi invasion in 1990, the position of the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher towards Kuwait, and the mixing of British and Kuwaiti blood on the soil of Kuwait in 1991. All these remain a testimony that the relationship between the two friendly countries has always been a unique model among countries,' he concluded
Arab Times
11-02-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait Gears Up for 12th British Week Starting Next Week
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 11: The British Embassy in Kuwait has announced the launch of the 12th edition of "British Week in Kuwait," set to take place on the ground floor of Capital Mall next week. The exhibition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad, will run for two days, February 18 and 19, from 10 AM to 10 PM, showcasing products and services from leading British companies. British Ambassador to Kuwait, Belinda Lewis, emphasized the strength of the UK-Kuwait trade relationship, which is now valued at approximately £6 billion annually. She highlighted that British companies have been operating in Kuwait for 250 years, reflecting deep-rooted historical and economic ties between the two nations. Ahmed Behbehani, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad for his patronage, noting that the event underscores the historic and strategic relations between Kuwait and the United Kingdom. He also pointed out that British Week is one of Kuwait's most significant economic events this year, showcasing the vital role British companies play in key sectors such as industry, services, real estate, and tourism.
