France, Uzbekistan deepening ties through education and culture – Ambassador Walid Fouque

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and France is steadily expanding, with education, cultural exchange, and youth engagement emerging as key drivers of bilateral relations, French Ambassador to Uzbekistan Walid Fouque said in an interview with Kun.uz.

According to the ambassador, one of the central projects is the launch of the Uzbek-French University, which is scheduled to open in September. The institution is being developed in cooperation with leading French and Uzbek universities and is expected to become a major platform for academic exchange and joint research.

“We are building new projects with Uzbek authorities, including the Uzbek-French University. At the same time, expanding French language education across Uzbekistan is one of our top priorities,” Fouque said, noting that interest among young Uzbeks in French education is growing.

French language learning is being promoted at several levels – through schools, higher education institutions, and cultural centers. Alliance Française branches in Tashkent and Samarkand continue to play a key role in this process, offering courses and cultural programs to strengthen linguistic and cultural ties.

The ambassador emphasized that the appeal of the French education system lies not only in its academic reputation but also in its accessibility. He pointed out that several French institutions are ranked among the world’s leading universities, including Paris Sciences et Lettres University, which is highly regarded in mathematics and physics.

At the same time, France has significantly expanded the number of programs taught in English, making higher education more accessible for international students. Among the institutions adapting to this trend are École Centrale de Nantes, known for its engineering programs, and Mines Paris – PSL, one of the country’s leading technical schools, which is launching new English-language programs.

Beyond education, the ambassador highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between the two countries. He recalled large-scale exhibitions dedicated to Uzbek heritage held in France in recent years, including projects hosted at the Louvre and the Institut du Monde Arabe, which attracted significant public interest.

“These initiatives help create a shared cultural space and allow people in both countries to better understand each other,” the ambassador said.

France is now preparing to organize similar initiatives in Uzbekistan. Among them is a planned “Made in France” exhibition showcasing French craftsmanship, industrial expertise, and technological know-how, reflecting the country’s traditions of innovation and quality.

The ambassador also addressed the global role of the French language, describing it as an important tool for promoting cultural diversity and international dialogue. According to him, French is spoken by around 400 million people worldwide, with a significant proportion of speakers under 30, making it one of the most dynamic global languages.

He noted that France and Uzbekistan share a common vision centered on progress, innovation, and scientific development. In this context, Paris supports Tashkent’s growing involvement in international initiatives and seeks to expand cooperation across several areas, including environmental protection. Particular attention is being paid to projects in Karakalpakstan, where joint efforts are focused on improving water management and supporting local communities affected by environmental challenges.

Reflecting on his experience in Uzbekistan, Ambassador Fouque said he has visited most regions of the country and was particularly impressed by the curiosity and enthusiasm of young people. Addressing Uzbek youth, the ambassador encouraged them to remain open-minded and proactive.

“Be curious, be open to new experiences, and maintain a critical mindset. This is the best way to progress,” he said, adding that France offers a wide range of academic, cultural, and professional opportunities. He also highlighted scholarship programs currently available for Uzbek students and encouraged them to apply, noting that studying in France can open doors to global careers.

Summing up the current state of relations, Ambassador Fouque described cooperation between the two countries as being built on “trust and friendship,” underlining the importance of people-to-people exchanges. Students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and cultural figures, he said, are playing a central role in shaping the future of France-Uzbekistan relations, ensuring that cooperation continues to deepen in the years ahead.