Latest news with #KuwaitiCouncilofMinisters


Arab Times
06-08-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwaiti Cabinet commends efforts in healthcare and technology advancement
The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers holds its weekly meeting. KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers convened its weekly session on Tuesday morning at Bayan Palace, under the chairmanship of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Following the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sherida Al-Mu'asherji issued a statement outlining key points discussed. The Cabinet was briefed on messages received by the Amiri Diwan, addressed to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, from leaders of sisterly and friendly countries. These communications focused on enhancing bilateral relations and activating joint cooperation between Kuwait and these countries across various fields. The Council was informed of the issuance of Decree No. (149) of 2025, which accepted the resignation of Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment Noura Sulaiman Al-Fassam. Subsequently, Decree No. (150) of 2025 appointed Dr. Subaih Abdulaziz Al-Mukhaizeem as Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, in addition to his roles as Minister of Finance and Acting Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment. In this regard, the Council expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to former Minister Al-Fassam for her dedicated efforts throughout her tenure, wishing her good health and continued success. The Cabinet also reviewed a visual presentation by Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Abdulwahab Al-Awadhi and senior Ministry officials outlining future plans. These include transforming the Ahmadi Health Zone into an integrated medical city, expanding Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital, and improving its operational efficiency. The presentation highlighted ongoing efforts to secure medical and technical staff in coordination with relevant authorities and proposed solutions to address administrative and technical challenges. Minister Al-Awadhi reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to implementing its strategic plan in partnership with concerned bodies to ensure the delivery of advanced, sustainable health services. The Council commended the efforts of Minister Al-Awadhi and his team for their continued dedication to enhancing medical services across Kuwait's hospitals, health centers, and clinics, reflecting the country's advanced position in the healthcare sector. Additionally, the Council reviewed a presentation by Minister of State for Communications Affairs Omar Saud Al-Omar and officials from the Central Agency for Information Technology regarding Kuwait's international standing in the communications and information technology sectors. The presentation noted Kuwait's achievement of first place globally in the 2024 Information and Communication Technology Development Index (IDI), published by the International Telecommunication Union, for the second consecutive year. This milestone reflects the country's advancements in digital infrastructure, adoption of modern technologies, and leadership in fostering innovation to stimulate economic growth. The Cabinet praised Minister Al-Omar and government agencies for their efforts in implementing the Kuwait Digital Strategy, aimed at achieving a sustainable and advanced digital future, and recognized the country's accomplishments in global ICT indicators. The Council also discussed recommendations from the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs concerning several draft laws, agreements, and memoranda of understanding between Kuwait and various sisterly and friendly nations. These measures seek to enhance Kuwait's international standing and strengthen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The Cabinet approved these recommendations and decided to submit them to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for final approval. Several other agenda items were reviewed and approved, while some were referred to the relevant ministerial committees for further study and report preparation to ensure proper implementation.


Arab Times
18-06-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwaiti Cabinet reviews security, economic projects in weekly meeting
KUWAIT CITY, June 18: The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers held its weekly session on Tuesday at Bayan Palace under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister. Following the meeting, Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Badah Al-Mutairi issued a statement summarizing the session's key discussions and decisions. The Cabinet began by extending heartfelt congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and the people of Kuwait on the advent of the Hijri New Year 1447 AH. Ministers offered prayers for continued prosperity and blessings for Kuwait and the Arab and Islamic nations. The meeting reviewed messages addressed to His Highness the Amir from leaders of friendly and allied countries, focusing on enhancing bilateral ties and strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors. In line with its commitment to monitor regional developments and bolster national preparedness, the Cabinet examined the minutes of the Ministerial Committee for Food, Drug, and Water Security. Health Minister Dr. Ahmed Abdulwahab Al-Awadhi briefed the ministers on the Ministry's pharmaceutical and medical stockpiles, confirming readiness to supply hospitals and health centers with essential medications and supplies over sustained periods. Commerce and Industry Minister Khalifa Abdullah Al-Ajil Al-Askar presented a visual report on Kuwait's strategic food reserves, market surveillance, and cooperative society monitoring to ensure the stable availability of food items and bottled water. Cabinet members also discussed overall readiness measures taken by ministries and government agencies in light of regional conditions. Ministers affirmed the continued delivery of essential services and supplies, as well as efforts to maintain national security and stability. On the development front, Minister of Public Works Dr. Noura Mohammed Al-Mashaan provided a detailed update on the new Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2 (T2) project, including its infrastructure, access roads, service buildings, and aircraft facilities. T2 has earned a Gold Rating from the U.S. Green Building Council under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, signaling international recognition of its sustainability standards. The Cabinet expressed gratitude to Dr. Al-Mashaan, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, and all involved in the T2 project. Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Abdullatif Hamed Al-Mishari offered a presentation on the Northern Economic Zone and Islands Project, emphasizing Bubiyan and Failaka Islands. The project is seen as a pivotal driver of non-oil revenue and a means to expand private sector engagement in industry, commerce, and tourism. Further, senior officials from the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), and its General Reserve Sector discussed plans for a new Entertainment City. The initiative, aimed at enhancing Kuwait's tourism appeal and economic activity, will involve collaboration with leading international companies for investment and operations. As part of its commitment to combating terrorism and its financing, the Cabinet reviewed a recommendation from the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs concerning an amendment to Law No. 106 of 2013. The proposed decree-law, approved by the Cabinet, will be submitted to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for final endorsement. The Council also acknowledged the Civil Service Commission's circular designating Thursday, June 26, 2025, as a public holiday in observance of the Hijri New Year. Official work will resume on Sunday, June 29, 2025, with exceptions granted for agencies providing essential services. The session concluded with a review of various items on the agenda. The Cabinet approved several matters and referred others to the relevant ministerial committees for further evaluation and procedural completion.


Arab Times
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait targets exam cheating with prison terms, hefty fines
KUWAIT CITY, June 5: Minister of Education Sayed Jalal Al-Tabtabaei praised the Cabinet's approval on Wednesday of a draft bill amending the Penal Code and criminalizing cheating and exam leaks. He called the legal amendments 'a turning point' for educational justice. He expressed gratitude to His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al- Sabah and other Cabinet members for their roles in this development, which reflects the political leadership's commitment to safeguarding the futures of students. The draft law explicitly outlaws the printing, selling, or leaking of exam questions and answers for intermediate and secondary schools, mainly when intended to facilitate cheating or undermine the examination process. Al-Tabtabaei emphasized that such actions threaten Kuwait's educational reputation and that legal action would be taken against offenders. The Cabinet's approved amendments add two articles to the Penal Code: Article 259 bis, which punishes leaking exam materials with imprisonment of up to five years and fines ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 dinars, and Article 259 bis (a), which penalizes altering exam answers or grades with up to seven years in prison and fines between 5,000 and 10,000 dinars. This initiative aims to protect the integrity of education and ensure fair assessments for all students. Meanwhile, the Kuwaiti Council of Ministers, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, convened its weekly session on Wednesday at Bayan Palace, reviewing significant local, regional, and international developments while approving major legal and institutional reforms. At the outset, the Cabinet extended Eid Al-Adha greetings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and the people and residents of Kuwait. It also congratulated the Crown Prince on the first anniversary of assuming office, praising his national achievements and leadership. As part of its legislative agenda, the Cabinet approved two draft decree-laws. The first introduces Articles 259 bis and 259 bis (A) to Penal Code No. 16 of 1960, criminalizing acts related to cheating and manipulation in intermediate and secondary school exams. Violations are punishable by imprisonment of up to seven years and fines ranging from KD 1,000 to KD 10,000. The second draft law amends Judicial Fees Law No. 17 of 1973, aiming to discourage frivolous lawsuits and promote alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and conciliation. These measures seek to preserve the integrity of the educational system and improve the effectiveness of the judiciary. The Cabinet commended the recent speech delivered by His Highness the Crown Prince at the Second GCC–ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where he represented His Highness the Amir in his capacity as President of the Gulf Cooperation Council. In his address, His Highness emphasized the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation and building strategic partnerships rooted in mutual respect, sustainable development, and integration. Highlighting the combined economic strength of the GCC and ASEAN — with a total GDP nearing USD 6 trillion — His Highness called for enhanced cooperation in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and food security, especially through sustainable agricultural investment. The Cabinet also praised the Crown Prince's participation in the GCC–ASEAN–China Tripartite Summit, where he welcomed the launch of the 2023–2027 strategic dialogue action plan. The plan outlines collaboration across sectors including renewable energy, education, health, technology, and scientific research. The Cabinet reviewed the results of the Crown Prince's official visit to Japan from May 28 to 31. During the visit, His Highness met with Emperor Naruhito, Crown Prince Fumihito, and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to discuss elevating bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. Minister of Information, Culture, and State Minister for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi presented a detailed report on the Crown Prince's visit to Kuwait's pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka. Accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, His Highness toured the pavilion, which showcases Kuwait's achievements in economy, energy, environment, education, and cultural heritage. He expressed appreciation for the organizers' efforts in presenting Kuwait's identity to the global audience. The Cabinet also discussed the outcomes of the recent official visit by Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara. The talks, chaired by His Highness the Amir on the Kuwaiti side and President Al-Shara on the Syrian side, focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors and addressing the latest developments in Syria. Both parties emphasized the need for intensified international efforts to ensure Syria's sovereignty, security, and stability. Additionally, the Cabinet reviewed high-level visits from the leaders of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Talks with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and UAE Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the strength of fraternal relations. These meetings led to the signing of several memoranda of understanding in sectors such as energy, advanced technology, education, law, health, investment, and cybersecurity. The Council received a presentation from Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Abdulaziz Al-Mukhaizeem, who outlined progress on several strategic infrastructure projects. These include the Shagaya and Abdaliyah Renewable Energy Projects, Az-Zour North Phases II and III, Khairan and Nuwaiseeb Phase I, and the Subiya Plant expansion phases. Combined, these projects will add 14,050 megawatts of electricity and 228 million gallons of daily water production. The Cabinet commended the ministry's efforts and stressed the importance of addressing implementation challenges to meet the nation's growing energy demands. The session concluded with the Cabinet approving several items on the agenda and referring others to specialized ministerial committees for further review and action. Through these comprehensive discussions and decisions, the Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to national development, regional cooperation, and institutional integrity.


Arab Times
05-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait targets exam fraud, frivolous lawsuits with new reforms
KUWAIT CITY, June 5: The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, convened its weekly session on Wednesday at Bayan Palace, reviewing significant local, regional, and international developments while approving major legal and institutional reforms. At the outset, the Cabinet extended Eid Al-Adha greetings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and the people and residents of Kuwait. It also congratulated the Crown Prince on the first anniversary of assuming office, praising his national achievements and leadership. As part of its legislative agenda, the Cabinet approved two draft decree-laws. The first introduces Articles 259 bis and 259 bis (A) to Penal Code No. 16 of 1960, criminalizing acts related to cheating and manipulation in intermediate and secondary school exams. Violations are punishable by imprisonment of up to seven years and fines ranging from KD 1,000 to KD 10,000. The second draft law amends Judicial Fees Law No. 17 of 1973, aiming to discourage frivolous lawsuits and promote alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and conciliation. These measures seek to preserve the integrity of the educational system and improve the effectiveness of the judiciary. The Cabinet commended the recent speech delivered by His Highness the Crown Prince at the Second GCC–ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where he represented His Highness the Amir in his capacity as President of the Gulf Cooperation Council. In his address, His Highness emphasized the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation and building strategic partnerships rooted in mutual respect, sustainable development, and integration. Highlighting the combined economic strength of the GCC and ASEAN — with a total GDP nearing USD 6 trillion — His Highness called for enhanced cooperation in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and food security, especially through sustainable agricultural investment. The Cabinet also praised the Crown Prince's participation in the GCC–ASEAN–China Tripartite Summit, where he welcomed the launch of the 2023–2027 strategic dialogue action plan. The plan outlines collaboration across sectors including renewable energy, education, health, technology, and scientific research. The Cabinet reviewed the results of the Crown Prince's official visit to Japan from May 28 to 31. During the visit, His Highness met with Emperor Naruhito, Crown Prince Fumihito, and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to discuss elevating bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. Minister of Information, Culture, and State Minister for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi presented a detailed report on the Crown Prince's visit to Kuwait's pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka. Accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, His Highness toured the pavilion, which showcases Kuwait's achievements in economy, energy, environment, education, and cultural heritage. He expressed appreciation for the organizers' efforts in presenting Kuwait's identity to the global audience. The Cabinet also discussed the outcomes of the recent official visit by Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara. The talks, chaired by His Highness the Amir on the Kuwaiti side and President Al-Shara on the Syrian side, focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors and addressing the latest developments in Syria. Both parties emphasized the need for intensified international efforts to ensure Syria's sovereignty, security, and stability. Additionally, the Cabinet reviewed high-level visits from the leaders of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Talks with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and UAE Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the strength of fraternal relations. These meetings led to the signing of several memoranda of understanding in sectors such as energy, advanced technology, education, law, health, investment, and cybersecurity. The Council received a presentation from Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Abdulaziz Al-Mukhaizeem, who outlined progress on several strategic infrastructure projects. These include the Shagaya and Abdaliyah Renewable Energy Projects, Az-Zour North Phases II and III, Khairan and Nuwaiseeb Phase I, and the Subiya Plant expansion phases. Combined, these projects will add 14,050 megawatts of electricity and 228 million gallons of daily water production. The Cabinet commended the ministry's efforts and stressed the importance of addressing implementation challenges to meet the nation's growing energy demands. The session concluded with the Cabinet approving several items on the agenda and referring others to specialized ministerial committees for further review and action. Through these comprehensive discussions and decisions, the Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to national development, regional cooperation, and institutional integrity.


Gulf Insider
23-02-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Insider
Kuwait To Restore Rights Of Women Stripped Of Nationality
Women whose Kuwaiti nationality was previously revoked under Article 8 of Amiri Decree No. 15 of 1959 will now be recognised as Kuwaiti female citizens, according to an administrative circular issued by Tariq Al Asfour, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice. Administrative Circular No. 9 of 2025 mandates all sectors of the Ministry of Justice to comply with its provisions, which take effect immediately. Additionally, the Kuwaiti Council of Ministers has approved the formation of a grievance committee to oversee cases of nationality withdrawal and revocation. The committee will be led by Counselor Ali Musaed Al Dhubaibi, with Abdul Wahab Abdul Rahman Al Muzaini serving as Vice President. Other members include Counselor Khalid Abdulrahman Al Bakr from the Fatwa and Legislation Department, Jamal Khalifa Al Rish, the former Deputy Director General of the General Department of Investigations, and Fawaz Suleiman Al Mishaan, former Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality and Travel Documents Affairs. The new committee has been tasked with reviewing cases related to nationality revocation and ensuring compliance with Decree-Law No. 15 of 1959 and its amendments. This decision follows the approval of minutes from the Supreme Committee for the Investigation of Nationality, which has been assessing cases of citizenship loss and withdrawal from certain individuals.