Long perceived as a young state with little past, Kuwait intends to write its own history. In this Gulf emirate of 4 million inhabitants, archaeology has become a national priority, accounting for a quarter of the cultural budget. Excavations are being carried out throughout the country, including at Christian sites. This is a way for Kuwait to assert its identity and show the world that it's not just an oil state. FRANCE 24's Léa Delfolie and Jules Pilorge report.