ShareKUWAIT: The year 2024 saw Kuwait actively engaging in diplomatic, political, and structural changes, with significant milestones achieved both internationally and domestically. The Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, was at the forefront of these developments, receiving numerous prestigious awards from global leaders and strengthening Kuwait’s ties with key regional and international partners.
Strengthened international ties
Kuwait’s international standing remained strong throughout 2024, as His Highness the Amir received multiple honors from world leaders in recognition of his leadership and the country’s contributions to regional stability.
January 30: On behalf of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud awarded Sheikh Meshal the King Abdulaziz Medal, acknowledging Kuwait’s role in fostering stability in the region.
February 6: Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman awarded HH the Amir the Al Saeed Medal, one of Oman’s highest honors, as a symbol of the close relations between the two nations. In return, Sheikh Meshal honored Sultan Haitham with the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Medal.
February 13: King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain presented the Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa Medal of the First Class to the Amir Sheikh Meshal. This prestigious honor was in recognition of His Highness’s efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and reinforcing the historic ties between the two countries.
February 20: Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, presented the Sword of the Founder Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani to HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal, reflecting the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
March 5: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, President of the UAE, awarded His Highness the Amir the Order of Zayed, the highest honor bestowed by the UAE on heads of state, kings, and leaders. On the same day, HH Sheikh Meshal decorated Sheikh Mohamed with the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Medal, signifying the strong relations between Kuwait and the UAE.
April 23: King Abdullah II of Jordan awarded the Hussein bin Ali Medal to HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal, highlighting the enduring bond between Kuwait and Jordan.
April 30: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi presented Sheikh Meshal with the Order of the Nile, Egypt’s highest state honor, acknowledging Kuwait’s historical role in supporting Egypt and regional peace.
May 7: During his visit to Turkey, HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal participated in the signing of six bilateral agreements with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who also awarded him the State Order.
Political reforms
The year 2024 also saw significant political and governance reforms aimed at strengthening Kuwait’s democratic processes and addressing key domestic issues.
May 10: In a historic address, HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal announced the dissolution of the National Assembly and the suspension of certain articles of the constitution for up to four years. This was part of a broader effort to evaluate and enhance Kuwait’s governance framework.
May 12: Amiri Decree No 73 was issued appointing Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah as Prime Minister, with a new Cabinet of 13 ministers.
May 27: HH the Amir issued a decree to form The Supreme Committee to Investigate Kuwaiti Citizenship, tasked with addressing issues related to citizenship and residency.
June 1: In another key move, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah was appointed as Kuwait’s new Crown Prince, with the formal swearing-in taking place on June 2.
November 28: Kuwait also saw the introduction of new measures under the Foreigners’ Residency Law through Amiri Decree No 114. The new decree replaces the longstanding decree 17/1959, which had been in effect for six decades, to address legislative gaps and modern challenges.
December 1: At the 45th Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal delivered an inaugural speech emphasizing regional cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Domestic milestones
Kuwait also made significant progress on the domestic front, including strides in education and sports.
March 6: HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal attended the official opening of Abdullah Al-Salem University, an important addition to Kuwait’s educational infrastructure.
May 13: HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal attended and presided over the inauguration ceremony of Sabah Al-Salem University City.
December 21: His Highness the Amir was present at the opening ceremony of the Gulf Cup (Khaleeji Zain 26) at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, reaffirming Kuwait’s prominent role in the regional sports community.
The events of 2024 underscored Kuwait’s active role on the global stage and its continued pursuit of political, economic, and social reforms. The awards and honors received by His Highness the Amir, combined with the ongoing domestic changes, demonstrated Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing its diplomatic relationships while addressing the evolving needs of its citizens. As the year comes to an end, the ongoing initiatives in governance, regional diplomacy, and national development provide a foundation for Kuwait’s continued growth and stability.
