As oil production boomed in Kuwait, so did prosperity. During Sheikh Abdullah’s reign, construction increased dramatically and at the heart of his policies laid the determination to ensure the welfare of Kuwait and its people. If Sheikh Mubarak Al Sabah maintained Kuwait’s international and political position, then Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Al Sabah established the country’s pillars of authority by finding the legal and constitutional institutions that enhanced its independence and further promoted democracy and progress.
He participated in public life before his reign, where he served as a chairman of the legislative council, and later the presidency of Shura Council. Sheikh Abdullah Al Sabah chaired many literacy and scientific associations, managed and oversaw Kuwait’s finances, and lead the renaissance movement.
In text: Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem’s speech while opening the first session of the nation’s council:
“At this stage which is considered an episode of our rising country towards its highest goals, it is my pleasure to congratulate you with your people’s trust for choosing you to handle the responsibility of representing them. My advice to you “as a parent to his son” is to work towards unifying the Arab nation committed to its religion, and traditions. It is my pleasure in this glorious day of our country’s history to swear by God Almighty to respect the constitution, and the state’s laws to defend the liberties of the people, their interests, and properties, safeguard the independence and national territorial integrity.
All photos are provided from the archive of Mr. Fahad Al Abduljaleel
First Published in Men's Passion Issue #35 November 2011
