PARIS, Oct 11: Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah, praised the operational expertise and readiness of the French National Gendarmerie during a visit on Friday to its southeastern regional command, underscoring the depth of security cooperation between Kuwait and France.

Sheikh Fahad, accompanied by Kuwaiti Ambassador to France Abdullah Al-Shaheen, was received upon arrival by Lieutenant General Frédéric Baudrier, Commander of the Southeastern Region of the French Gendarmerie, the Kuwaiti Interior Ministry said in a statement.

The visit featured a comprehensive tour of the base facilities, where Sheikh Fahad was briefed by senior officers on the diverse tasks and operational mechanisms employed by the gendarmerie units to address modern security challenges. He commended their high level of efficiency and extensive field experience across various aspects of internal security work.

During the tour, Sheikh Fahad attended a full-scale military parade showcasing the French forces' response capabilities. The demonstration included a simulated large-scale riot control operation at the battalion level, featuring the use of armored vehicles, drones, and helicopters in public order exercises.

At the regional command center, the Kuwaiti minister was presented with a visual briefing outlining the strategic planning and management techniques used during major events and public gatherings. The presentation highlighted the gendarmerie’s sophisticated coordination capabilities and preparedness.

At the conclusion of the visit, Sheikh Fahad extended his sincere thanks to the command staff and personnel for their warm welcome and generous hospitality. He expressed appreciation for their efforts and conveyed his wishes for continued progress, security, and prosperity for the French Republic.

Lieutenant General Baudrier welcomed the visit, describing it as a reflection of the strong and enduring ties between the two friendly nations.