By Tareq Yusuf Al Shuamimary
Editor-in-Chief
In a significant development, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has issued an amiri decree appointing Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah as the new Prime Minister of Kuwait. This announcement has been widely welcomed by regional and international leaders, as well as all sections of Kuwaiti society.
Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, born on October 10, 1955, is an eminent economist, diplomat, and politician. He is the fourth son of Sheikh Sabah III Al-Salim Al-Sabah, the 12th Amir of Kuwait, and Nouriya Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the sister of the present Amir. His elder brother, Salem Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, has previously served as both Minister of Defense and Interior.
With an impressive educational background, Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah obtained his bachelor’s degree in economics from Claremont McKenna College in the United States. He further pursued his studies at Harvard University, earning both a master’s degree and a PhD in economics and Middle Eastern studies. Notably, his undergraduate thesis titled ‘Critical Analysis of Inflation in Kuwait’ won him the prestigious Salvatori Scholar Prize in 1978.
Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah’s diplomatic career began in 1993 when he was appointed as the ambassador of Kuwait to the United States. He served in this role until February 14, 2001, following which he assumed the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, he held the position of Minister of Finance from January 2003 to July 2003. On February 11, 2006, he was appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister while continuing his role as the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
However, in 2011, Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah resigned from office due to his strong stance against corruption in public life. Since then, he has focused on his academic pursuits at Oxford University. Married to Feryal Duaij Al Salman Al Sabah, the couple has four children.
The appointment of Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah as the new Prime Minister of Kuwait has garnered praise from various quarters. In an official message of congratulations, the US State Department expressed its support for the appointment, highlighting Sheikh Mohammad’s distinguished career in public service and his commitment to the strategic partnership between the United States and Kuwait. The United States looks forward to deepening its partnership with Kuwait and the new Prime Minister, particularly in achieving stability and peace in the Middle East.
Members of the business community have also extended their full support to Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. They recognize his exceptional leadership qualities, extensive experience both within the country and abroad, and his broad network of international relations. With his economic credentials and political acumen, there is optimism for the future growth and development trajectory of Kuwait under his sagacious leadership. Business leaders and economic experts anticipate that the new Prime Minister will prioritize economic and financial development, with a focus on enhancing private sector participation in the economy. They also hope that he will address long-standing fiscal challenges and rectify structural imbalances.
The appointment of Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah as the Prime Minister of Kuwait is expected to bring stability and progress to the country. With his wealth of experience and expertise, he is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The international community eagerly awaits the positive impact his leadership will have on Kuwait and the broader Middle East region.
In conclusion, the appointment of Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah as the new Prime Minister of Kuwait marks a significant milestone for the country. His impressive background, diplomatic experience, and commitment to economic development have garnered widespread support and optimism. As he assumes his new role, Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah has the opportunity to shape the future of Kuwait and contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region.
Source: TimesKuwait