Kuwait celebrates National Day

TODAY each and every Kuwaiti nationals would feel proud, as they are ready to celebrate more than half a century of success and achievements. Back home preparations are in full swing to mark triple joyful events namely, the 51st anniversary of independence, the 21st anniversary of the liberation and the 6th anniversary of the accession of the Amir.

Kuwait continues to shine under the wise leadership of Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Several achievements on the political and economic scales have been accomplished, whereby it has managed to acquire a regional and international role at the forefront of the developed world. These achievements are highlighted by the evident development in democratic practice under the directions of the Amir, who has taken it upon himself to making sure this remains a symbol of modernisation.

Following the end of British Protectorate on June 19, 1961, Kuwait adopts a democratic system which contributes to safeguarding the nation against unrest and upheavals which swept through some countries in the region.

Throughout the last couple of months Kuwait has witnessed important developments that shape its great political landscape. Last November, Kuwaitis have celebrated the passage of 50 years since Kuwait's National Constitution was written and unanimously accepted by the people. In his speech to mark the event, the Amir of the State of Kuwait, stressed that the Constitution was the real guarantee for the country's political system, and the main pillar of national security. The Amir added that the constitution's provisions ensure the democratic approach to maintain national constants, and its principles provide freedom and democracy, paving the way for building, education and achievements in order to buttress the constituents of the State, to strengthen and unify its ranks.

The country's constitution ensures the dividing lines among authorities and gives the legislative authority its prestige in order to continuously and boastfully carry on its supervisory role in the realisation of reforms. Additionally, the constitution consecrates Kuwait's deep-rooted principles and values, which are based on the fact that the ruling system is democratic, sovereignty belongs to the nation, which is the source of all authorities, justice, freedom and equity are the pillars of the society, while the State provides security, safety and equal opportunities to all citizens, and ensures that all people are equal in the eye of law in view of rights and duties regardless of gender, origin, language and religion.

Kuwait's democracy embodies one of the key aspects of civilisation; beliefs in women's freedom, right of expression, right of work, empowerment and vital role in the building of the society. Early this month, a transparent and fair election of the National Assembly (Parliament) has been peacefully and successfully achieved. Foreign observers who participated in monitoring Kuwait parliamentary elections lauded the high professionalism of organisers and civil society, describing it as a real success.

As far as development strategy is concerned, Kuwait has implemented a US$110 billion (around $137 billion) five-year development plan for the 2010-14 period, which aims at upgrading the state's various sectors, including infrastructure, educational and health services, and minimising its dependence on oil as the source of income, transforming the country into a financial-commercial hub in compliance with the desire of the Amir in a drive to support the national economy and advance the development process.

As a result, Kuwait has witnessed major economical changes and events during the past few years. The government has announced an extensive investment program for the next four years. As part of the State Development Strategy, 300 projects were already under way at an annual cost of US$1.7 billion. The government plans to expand project development through local and foreign companies, and to diversify and boost the economy.

Moreover, Kuwait government is planning to ease regulations for new business establishments, and give access to lands for development and infrastructure purposes in order to attract more foreign investments. Kuwait's budget surplus widened to KD13.2 billion (around US$47.6 billion) in the first nine months of its 2011-12 fiscal year, nearly double its year-ago level on higher than expected oil income and lower spending.

In field of oil industry, Kuwait has achieved other noteworthy accomplishments. Oil production continues to increase, having reached three million barrels per day (bpd) as of early last December. Kuwait has plans to further increase its output in the future, aiming to reach four million bpd by 2020. To achieve this goal, however, Kuwait will need to develop its heavy oil deposits. Furthermore, the country is also looking abroad for additional energy sources, with the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) involved in joint energy projects in Asian countries and elsewhere.

Kuwait's efforts to expand exploration and production operations abroad will likely supplement rising output at home, as the country seeks to expand domestic capacity by tapping new sources of oil.

Kuwait, with the abundant bounties granted by His Almighty, has furnished the people with all needs for living, such as free education, medical treatment and jobs through government development schemes. Thus, Kuwaiti nationals, over the past 20 years, affirmed their solid loyalty to their homeland and solidarity with their leadership. They succeeded in rallying international support for their cause in the regional and international arenas. The world now eyes with admiration Kuwaiti people that is small in number but great in will.

On humanitarian efforts, Kuwait's noticeable aid for needy nations particularly at times of crises and catastrophes have drawn a worldwide appreciation. This outstanding role within the international humanitarian arena is under the framework of the initiatives and directions of the Amir.

Courtesy of the Embassy of the State of Kuwait