KUWAIT CITY, Dec 16: Kuwait and its people are celebrating today, Monday, the first anniversary of the proclamation of His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as Amir of the country. This occasion marks the continuation of a legacy of leadership and achievements by Kuwait’s honorable rulers, ushering in a new era of hope and progress toward a prosperous future.

On December 16, 2023, the Cabinet convened following the passing of the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God rest his soul. During this meeting, His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was declared the Amir of Kuwait, in accordance with the Constitution and Article Four of Law No. 4 of 1964 regarding the succession of the Emirate. His wisdom, sincerity, and dedication to the nation's security and stability were key factors in this decision.

On December 20, 2023, His Highness officially assumed his role as the 17th ruler of Kuwait. This marked the culmination of a distinguished career spanning six decades, during which he held key positions in the Ministry of Interior and the National Guard before being named Crown Prince. Throughout his career, he represented Kuwait’s rulers on numerous official missions and visits.

Born in Kuwait in 1940, His Highness received his early education at Al-Mubarakiya School, the first regular school in Kuwait, and later graduated from Hendon College in the United Kingdom with a degree in police sciences in 1960. He joined the Ministry of Interior, where he rose through the ranks to become head of the General Investigations Department in 1967, with the rank of Colonel. His Highness is credited with founding Kuwait’s State Security Service and played a pivotal role in its development.

On April 17, 2004, His Highness was appointed Deputy Chief of the National Guard. During his tenure, the institution underwent significant development, enhancing its role in safeguarding the nation’s security and stability. He was named Crown Prince by an Amiri decree on October 7, 2020.

As the seventh son of the late ruler Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness is part of a legacy that includes his brothers, the late rulers Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. His upbringing in the Al-Sabah family instilled in him wisdom, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of governance.

During his first year as Amir, His Highness has overseen numerous achievements in various fields, guided by his directives to enhance Kuwait’s regional and international standing, address challenges, and advance development. His Highness has consistently emphasized the importance of national unity, respect for the law, combating corruption, and fulfilling the aspirations of Kuwaiti citizens for a brighter future.

His Highness has paid particular attention to domestic issues, listening to citizens' concerns and ideas to elevate the country’s status. He has urged unity to ensure Kuwait’s security and prosperity. Key milestones during his reign include:

- March 25-26: Visits to the Kuwait Sports Club for the Deaf, the Nabati Poets Diwaniya, the Kuwait Blind Association, and the Kuwait Sports Club for the Disabled.

- April 29: Sponsorship of a ceremony honoring distinguished teachers and schools on World Teachers’ Day.

- May 6: Sponsorship of the Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Informatics Award ceremony.

- May 10: Issuance of a decree dissolving the National Assembly and suspending certain constitutional articles to reform the democratic process.

- May 13: Sponsorship of the opening ceremony of Sabah Al-Salem University City and the honoring of Kuwait University’s top graduates.

- December 11: Sponsorship of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences Awards ceremony.

In the realm of foreign policy, His Highness has reinforced Kuwait’s commitment to Gulf unity and international cooperation. He visited several Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, and hosted the 45th GCC Supreme Council session on December 1. His efforts have strengthened Gulf cohesion and advanced joint initiatives to address regional and international challenges.

On numerous occasions, His Highness has emphasized his commitment to strengthening constructive cooperation with Arab countries to address the challenges facing the Arab world, focusing particularly on the Palestinian cause. He has also highlighted the importance of preserving Arab unity and respecting the independence and sovereignty of Arab nations.

His Highness has also focused on fostering strong ties with Arab nations. He visited Jordan on April 23 and Egypt on April 30, discussing common interests and regional developments with their leaders. Internationally, he has upheld Kuwait’s principles of respecting sovereignty, non-interference, adherence to international legitimacy, and promoting peace. Notable engagements include a state visit to Turkey on May 7, where six agreements were signed, and meetings with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and European Council President Charles Michel.

Under His Highness’s leadership, Kuwait continues its journey of progress, building on the legacy of its previous rulers. His vision ensures the nation remains a beacon of development and unity, advancing its regional and international standing while preserving its rich heritage.