Ban Ki-moon lauds Sheikh Sabah

UN chief honors Amir of Kuwait as ‘Humanitarian Leader’ – Sheikh Sabah recounts Kuwait’s charitable initiatives

NEW YORK: UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon yesterday said HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has shown “remarkable acts of human kindness and generosity” and Kuwait “exemplary humanitarian leadership” in the support of humanitarian operations in nations in crisis around the world. “We are here today to pay tribute to the humanitarian leadership of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. We thank the Amir and the people of Kuwait for their outstanding generosity towards Syrians and Iraqis in need,” he said in remarks at a ceremony recognizing the humanitarian leadership of the Amir at the UN headquarters in New York.

Sheikh Sabah, honored by Ban as a “Humanitarian Leader”, announced that Kuwait would double its annual contribution to the Central Emergency Response Fund (CEFR) to $1 million. “I am pleased to announce before you of doubling our fixed annual voluntary contribution to the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to USD one million,” Sheikh Sabah said in a speech.

Sheikh Sabah, highly appreciating the honoring as a “special occasion”, said Kuwait, since its independence and gaining the UN membership, has followed a steady approach in its foreign policy, based essentially on humanitarian assistance to all needy countries “regardless of their geographic location, religious beliefs or ethnic origins”.

This assistance is in “pursuance of its belief and conviction of the importance of international partnership, as well as the unification and activation of international efforts, aimed at the maintenance and preservation of the foundations of life – that is the human spirit,” said the Amir. Sheikh Sabah noted that Kuwait has always been developing and modernizing the methods of providing assistance.

He said an initiative announced by late Kuwaiti Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to write off interest of soft loans to numerous developing and least developed countries in 1988 “has become a precedent in international humanitarian work, thereby initiating a quantum leap in the assistance methods of Kuwaiti diplomacy, which exemplified the genuine understanding of humanitarian needs highlighting the humanitarian concept of such loans and assistance”.

“Kuwaiti charitable associations and peoples’ fundraising committees have set an example in their continued support of many humanitarian projects in Asia and Africa, by individual initiatives that have become – by the blessing of Allah – a shining example of benevolence characterizing the Kuwaiti people,” said the Kuwaiti leader. The Amir said in 2008 Kuwait earmarked 10 percent of its total humanitarian assistance to countries affected by natural or man-made disasters to be channeled to UN organizations and specialized agencies active in the humanitarian field.

“This was followed by official decisions to double the fixed annual voluntary contributions to a number of international agencies and organizations such as the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This has provided the humanitarian work of Kuwait with wider horizons and more comprehensive dimensions to promote direct cooperation in the various crises, with those international bodies,” he said.

The Amir underlined that the acts of benevolence and philanthropy are “inherent values in the hearts of the Kuwaiti people, as inherited generation after generation from their forefathers”. He said the Kuwaiti people kept offering aid for the needy people even when they faced hardships in the past, in reference to the 1990-91 Iraqi invasion and occupation of Kuwait.

Sheikh Sabah said Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), which was established in 1961, was an expression of sincere desire of Kuwait in providing assistance to Arab states and friendly countries through providing soft loans and technical assistance in support of their efforts to achieve their development. The gross amount of loans provided by the fund during more than half a century reached $17.6 billion benefitting 103 countries, representing 1.2 percent of Kuwait’s gross national income (GNI), exceeding the 0.7 percent of GNI the UN has determined in 1970 as an indicator of the official development assistance to be provided by developed countries.

Kuwait, noted the Kuwaiti leader, hosted two donors’ conferences for the Syrian people in 2013 and 2014 where $3.6 billion was pledged, of which Kuwait contributed an amount of $800 million. HH the Amir highlighted the UN’s important role to confronting challenges facing social peace and political security around the world. “I also would like to renew that the commitment of Kuwait – which has always been a firm and genuine supporter and an effective member of the United Nations – is still of the same conviction and shall remain so, out of its belief in the noble message of the United Nations in the preservation of international peace and security, the dissemination of the principals of justice and equality and ensuring a life of dignity and welfare to the peoples of the world,” said HH the Amir.

Ban lauds Sheikh Sabah

“For more than three years, we have witnessed an unfolding humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East. First in Syria, now in Iraq, we have seen the terrible consequences of conflict,” said Ban during the ceremony. “But in response to this death and chaos, we have seen remarkable acts of human kindness and generosity. Kuwait has shown exemplary humanitarian leadership in supporting these operations. Under the leadership of the Amir, Kuwait has hosted two pledging conferences – in 2013 and 2014 – and it hosts the meetings of the Top Donors Group for Syria,” he said.

“Every year, Kuwait holds a regional conference on partnerships for effective humanitarian action. Kuwait has also increased its support for multilateral humanitarian action, exponentially since the start of the crisis in Syria. In the past two years, Kuwait has donated hundreds of millions of dollars for humanitarian operations – not only in the Middle East, but in Chad, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Somalia and Sudan. Kuwait’s leadership and funding has saved lives, and has galvanized others to participate in coordinated international action. At a time when so many of our appeals are underfunded, it is good to know we can count on Kuwait’s generosity,” he added. Ban concluded by expressing deep gratitude for these efforts. “Your Excellency, we thank you and count on your continued support.”

Kuwaiti Crown Prince Congratulates Amir

Meanwhile, HH the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in a message congratulated HH the Amir on his honoring. “This title is not merely such, but extends to an assessment of a legacy filled with work in the humanitarian field and generosity that has extended over many decades,” he said in his message. “There is no doubt that the UN’s delivery of this honour comes to ensure the international position you possess and the elevated position Kuwait benefits from in the field of humanitarian and relief work regionally and internationally as a result of your wise leadership,” he said.

“It pleases me and the people of Kuwait to take this joyful opportunity to express our feelings of warm emotions and utter devotion. We ask of God Almighty to shower you with the best of health and support. It also pleases me to express my most profound admiration of the distinguished and diligent efforts you are taking to ensure the position of Kuwait at international podiums. I pray to God that the name of Kuwait remains high with pride and dignity and that God may protect you as a symbol of Kuwait and the Arab and Islamic worlds,” Sheikh Nawaf added.

The Amir replied that he had received with “full appreciation” the message of congratulations. “We would like to express our profound gratitude over the expressions of warmth, honesty and prayer from you and the Kuwaiti people. We ensure that this honor was achieved thanks to God Almighty and the efforts of our loyal people, who have responded to the humanitarian calls in aid of those in need and in strife.

They (the people of Kuwait) have embodied the characteristics of the people of Kuwait since olden times, of love for carrying out good deeds, generosity and giving. This honor from the United Nations of our dear nation has come to assure to the whole world the noble role Kuwait is assuming in the field of humanitarian and relief work, which is a cause for pride of every (Kuwaiti) citizen,” he concluded.

Officials laud UN honoring of His Highness the Amir – Kuwaiti leadership ‘asset for Arab nation’

KUWAIT: The United Nations’ decision to name His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah a ‘global humanitarian leader’ is well-deserved for His Highness’s efforts, initiatives, and humanitarian work, a Bahraini official said yesterday. Sheikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Deputy Prime Minister, stressed the importance of the efforts made by His Highness Sheikh Sabah in promoting humanitarian work which led to the UN naming Kuwait as a ‘global humanitarian hub’.

The UN will honor His Highness the Amir next Tuesday at the UN headquarters in New York for his effort within the humanitarian domain. The Bahraini deputy premier made those remarks during his meeting with Sheikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah, Ambassador of Kuwait to the Kingdom of Bahrain. For his part Ambassador Sheikh Azzam Al-Sabah also praised the role of His Highness the Amir and the long list of humanitarian initiatives and contributions from which millions of people benefited.

Honor for Kuwaitis

Meanwhile, a Kuwaiti diplomat said that the UN honoring of HH the Amir is an “honor for all Kuwaitis.” “Kuwait, despite being a small nation, had provided assistance to numerous UN agencies on orders from His Highness the Amir,” Mansour Al-Otaibi, Kuwait’s Ambassador to the UN headquarters in New York, said.

He added that Kuwait also extended its helping hand to other international humanitarian organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and others. Kuwait also hosted a number of international conferences aimed at helping those in need, said Otaibi who named the donors conferences for Syrian refugees as a chief example of Kuwait’s humanitarian stance.

Chief humanitarian nation

In the meantime, Lebanon’s Minister for Social Affairs Rashid Darbas said that HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah is an “asset for the Arab nation”, and affirmed that Kuwait was amongst the chief nations when it came to humanitarian efforts. He further noted in statements that honoring HH the Amir as a humanitarian leader was something not out the ordinary. “Lebanon will always remember His Highness for his support,” Darbas said, further indicating that aiding Lebanon in accommodating the Syrian refugees fleeing from the war in their country since 2011 was very helpful.

Also, Jordan’s Minister of Planning Dr Ibrahim Saif said that HH the Amir earned the ‘humanitarian leader’ title for his long service for Kuwait, as well as due to the Gulf country’s record of charitable activities “witnessed in various corners of the world.” He referred to development schemes and humanitarian aid for brotherly and friendly nations.

The Jordanian minister further pointed out the role that HH the Amir played as the architect of the two International Humanitarian Pledging Conferences for Syria, hosted by Kuwait in 2013 and 2014, and his pledges to earmark millions of dollars worth of aid to ease off the Syrian people’s hardships.

Furthermore, Dr Saif underscored HH Sheikh Sabah’s initiatives for aiding Syrian refugees in Jordan, namely the establishment of the makeshift “Kuwait Village” at Al-Zaatari camp. He also underscored in this respect Kuwait’s funding of a series of development projects in Jordan. At the political level, His Highness the Amir has taken initiatives aimed at achieving Arab-Arab consensus, Dr Saif said.

Distinctive supporter

For his part, Peter Ford, the UN Relief Works Agency in the Near East Commissioner General, said that HH the Amir “certainly deserves such honoring because he has been a distinctive supporter for the Palestinian refugees,” noting Sheikh Sabah’s hastily pledges of support for the Palestinians during the 2008-2009 war on Gaza.

Meanwhile, Andrew Harper, UNHCR’s Representative to the Hashemite Kingdom

of Jordan, affirmed that Kuwaiti support for the Syrian refugees, including, children, women and elderly, “has not only saved lives but has also restored hope for many who have lost all their possessions”. The State of Kuwait granted more than USD 210 million to the UNHCR over the past two years to help the Syrians.

KTV coverage

Separately, the Information Ministry’s Undersecretary Salah Al-Mubarki said that UN’s naming of HH the Amir as a Humanitarian Leader and the State of Kuwait as global humanitarian center comes in appreciation of the role of the country and its charities. Al-Mubarki, also and deputy chairman of the standing committee for

celebrating the national holidays and events, said in an interview with Arab and foreign media that the fingerprints of HH the Amir in humanitarian work date back to many decades ago when he assumed several positions and contributed to the humanitarian action. The Undersecretary pointed to Kuwait’s long history in the humanitarian action, a tradition that passes through generations, adding that after Kuwait’s independence charitable work has become institutionalized through a number of agencies, private or public.

Al-Mubarki noted that the most important players in this domain are Kuwait Red Crescent Society, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) which extended its projects to many countries, and the Zakat House, in addition to efforts made by a number of prominent Kuwaiti figures. The official added that Kuwait State television (KTV) will broadcast on the evening of September 9 the proceedings of the ceremony to honor HH the Amir in United Nations headquarters in New York including a speech by His Highness the Amir on the occasion.

Kuwait’s humanitarian initiatives reflect Amir efforts – Envoys laud Sheikh Sabah’s contributions

CAPITALS: The model Kuwaiti village of 2,000 mobile homes provided to Syrian refugees in Jordan constitute a symbol of Kuwaiti generosity to the many Syrians who sought shelter abroad ever since the outbreak of the crisis in their nation.

In addition to the mobile homes, also known as caravans, placed in both Zaatari and Al-Azraq refugee camps the project consists of two schools, each occupying an area of 2,600 square/meters, a mosque and a medical centre.

The initiative aims to serve the needs of the approximately 150,000 refugees who were previously living under makeshift tents that do little to shelter them from the sometimes harsh weather conditions, said Kuwaiti Ambassador to Jordan Hamad Al-Duaij. He was speaking to KUNA on the occasion of the United Nations’ honoring of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a ‘humanitarian leader’, and the State of Kuwait a humanitarian centre.

The initiative is launched under the watchful eye of Kuwaiti charity International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) president and the UN chief’s humanitarian envoy Abdullah Al-Maatouq. This supplements two international conferences, hosted by Kuwait, which raised pledges worth around USD 4.6 billion for Syrians displaced inside and out of their country, of which Kuwait has already granted USD 800 million.

Assistance from Kuwait either for Syrians living in refugee camps across Jordan or handed to UN agencies tasked with providing care and support to the displaced are part and parcel of the huge efforts assumed by the country ever since the outbreak of violence in their country in 2011, he added. The ambassador also mentioned the benefits this provides to Jordan, through easing the burden it is undergoing, as the neighboring country hosts around 600,000 Syrian refugees.

Kuwait has always been a solid partner to Jordan through the years, supporting development projects in the country through its various funds – the most recent of which comes in the form of the collective USD 1.25 billion grant from the Gulf Cooperation Council bloc, which includes Kuwait.

Great efforts

Meanwhile, Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti Ambassador to the United States of America, said that the humanitarian initiatives are part of “years of great efforts by HH the Amir”, which have resulted in “unlimited support for humanitarian action at various levels and in various parts of the globe.”

Therefore, the UN decision to name HH the Amir a “Humanitarian Leader” is “well-deserved and befitting the wisdom of HH the Amir,” he continued. HH the Amir “strives to do whatever would alleviate the severe humanitarian conditions” that have befallen the region and the world, in a manner that mirrors Kuwait’s “noble principles and firm conviction that humanitarian action is an essential part of the collective responsibility of the international community.”

The ambassador further lauded the role played by the generous people of Kuwait, and their “relentless pursuit (toward) mobilizing international efforts” to assist those who have been affected by difficult circumstances. He described the UN designation as “a certificate of appreciation for the philanthropic role” played by the people of Kuwait, “whether through governmental institutions or private charities.”

The award is an “explicit recognition of the positive role and the policies pursued by the State of Kuwait, which contributed to the strengthening of (the nation) and its reputation in the international community,” he concluded. The UN is expected to officially hand over the prestigious humanitarian award to the State of Kuwait today.

Honor and pride

Kuwaiti ambassadors around the world have applauded the UN honoring of HH the Amir. “[the honoring] is an honor and pride to us all”, said Kuwait’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Sheikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah during a reception for Kuwaiti students in the Kingdom. He added that the honoring comes in recognition from the international community of the role by Kuwait and HH the Amir in global charity and humanitarian work. It also manifests appreciation of the Kuwaiti humanitarian initiatives and contributions to the afflicted people.

The honoring is a merited recognition to an ample career of humanitarian work of HH the Amir, who has been leading efforts to allay people’s sufferings in various parts of the world, Kuwait’s Ambassador to France Ali Suleiman Al-Saeed said. He added that HH the Amir was a major contributor to establishing the Islamic heritage pavilion at the Louvre Museum, when he donated five million euros for the cultural section.

HH the Amir also offered three millions euros to the Arab World Institute in the French capital, motivated by his belief in the role it played for boosting intercultural dialogue, Ambassador Al-Saeed said. HH the Amir also presented euro 2.7 million to the UNESCO in support of the cultural message of the organization.

For his part, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Moscow Abdulaziz Ahmad Al-Adwani, told KUNA that honoring HH the Amir is a source of pride for each and every Kuwaiti. This unprecedented honoring recognizes the leading humanitarian role by Kuwait, prompted by a belief that all people have the right to live with dignity, regardless of ethnicity, race or faith.

Top world donor

This rare UN honoring appreciates the humanitarian role by HH the Amir who has put Kuwait among top world donors, offering aid to countries affected by catastrophes and conflicts, from a pure humanitarian view, Kuwait Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Delegate to the African Union Rashed Al-Hajri, said.

Kuwait’s Ambassador to Qatar Meteb Saleh Al-Mutotah, said that the UN honoring is merited, for Kuwait’s efforts, both people and leadership, extending aid and relief to affected people.

Over the past decades, HH the Amir has been known for constructive efforts to provide humanitarian aid as well as cementing ties with the world, Al-Mutotah told KUNA. He referred to the initiatives HH the Amir has adopted since he became at the helm, for settling rows and differences. The UN honoring comes in appreciation of HH the Amir’s non-stop support to humanitarian work for humanity, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Morocco, Shamlan Abdulaziz Al-Roumi. Not only is this a source pride to Kuwaitis, but to the Arabs and Muslims, and Kuwait lovers everywhere.

Crown Prince hails UN honor for Amir, Kuwait – Sheikh Nawaf lauds ‘national celebrations’

KUWAIT: HH the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah yesterday described the United Nations naming HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah a “humanitarian leader” and designating Kuwait as a center for humanitarian action as “another national celebration”. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will confer the title to the Amir at the UN headquarters in New York in an official ceremony today.

“This great international achievement is an honorable recognition and a historic testament to our beloved Kuwait and our wise leader, as well as the Kuwaiti people,” the Crown Prince noted in a speech on the occasion, adding that the honoring is also a source of pride for every Arab and Muslim. “We are witnessing a historic event that the people of Kuwait are entitled to be proud of. When honoring a state and its leader come at the same time, this means that the virtues of giving and helping other human beings are deep-seated in the hearts of the Kuwaiti people throughout many generations.

“Everyone is aware of the generosity of Kuwait and its leader, which covered each and every corner of the world without a shred of political interest or condition attached… Generosity not governed by religious orientations, color, gender or geography. Such virtues arise from Islam’s teachings, which call for and promote virtues of giving and practicing good deeds,” Sheikh Nawaf said.

The Deputy Amir added that honoring the Amir is not driven only by his donations or financial contributions but rather by his relentless humanitarian efforts, initiatives and moves. “His Highness’ relentless hard work, political initiatives and diplomatic efforts on all levels have majorly contributed to mending gaps and reaching conciliations,” he said. “His Highness the Amir founded a new philosophy for diplomatic action, which is driven by responsibility, credibility and respect of human integrity and rights.

“His Highness lent many wonderful humanitarian merits to the diplomatic action through many initiatives, projects, funds and conferences, which reflects His Highness’ human and courteous sense,” concluded HH the Deputy Amir, wishing everlasting prosperity, advancement and safety for Kuwait, its leader and people.

Salman Al- Humoud:  "The Humanitarian Amir"

Kuwait's Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Sabah Salem Al- Humoud Al-Sabah said: "Forecast Honoring of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a «humanitarian leader» along with the proclamation of Kuwait as an «international humanitarian center» at the UN headquarters this month (September) affirms the explicit fact that has been well known for tens of years that our country has become an international icon promoting a humanitarian message of giving to the world; for sake of relieving those stricken with manmade or natural catastrophes.

In this respect, I note that His Highness the Amir has been chosen «the Arab world humanitarian personality of 2014» by the Arab Family Organization due to His Highness’ great contributions at the humanitarian and relief levels, where almost all records of charitable and humanitarian

activities at the Arab and international levels include His Highness’ initiatives of aid within framework of a humanitarian message.

Therefore, it can be fairly stated that His Highness the Amir is the architect of a new diplomatic concept, «the humanitarian diplomacy,» that has become synonymous with Kuwait, in addition to His Highness’ visionary outlook, based on «the economic diplomacy,» also a new, innovated diplomatic term, thus providing a special dimension to Kuwait’s unique identity."

Our Kuwaiti society is graced by Allah with giving and generosity and historic record of the country is rich in diplomatic activities at the official and popular levels, initiatives by senior leaders and prominent figures.

We note as an example His Highness the Amir’s initiative to host the International Humanitarian Pledging Conference for Syria in response to a call by the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, two years ago (2013). A year later (2014), the second round of the conference followed, concluding with pledges worth 2.4 billion US dollars by the participating states including Kuwait which pledged half a billion dollars, which was fully paid."

Kuwait- GCC FMs congratulate His Highness the Amir on humanitarian title 

(MENAFN - The GCC Foreign Ministers' Council on Saturday congratulated His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on naming him as international humanitarian leader and Kuwait as humanitarian center.

"This honoring is a translation of Kuwait's leading role in the humanitarian and development domains," according to the final statement of the 132nd session of the ministerial council.

The UN has named His Highness the Amir as humanitarian leader and Kuwait as humanitarian center in appreciation of their outstanding contributions to the relief efforts worldwide.

Speaker, Chief Justice recognize Amir’s honor

KUWAIT: National Assembly Speaker of Kuwait Marzouq Al-Ghanim held high His Highness the Amir’s naming by the UN as a “Humanitarian Leader” as recognition to HH’s international role in many regional “hotbeds”. “HH chose for Kuwait the path of humanity and relief to ease suffering of people caught in ‘hot’ conflict zones, and used as a fireball to fuel the political game,” Speaker Al-Ghanim said in a press release on the occasion. “This what happened in the Syrian file, with the top priority of HH the Amir is to alleviate suffering of the Syrian people.” Congratulating HH on the naming on behalf of all MPs, Al-Ghanim said the honoring, as well as designating Kuwait as a “humanitarian center” crowned Kuwait’s policy as a role model for balance and wisdom.

Meanwhile, Chief of the Supreme Judicial Council Councilor Faisal Al-Mershid said the UN honoring of HH the Amir has pleased Kuwaiti people. Mershid said in a statement, highlighting the persistent humanitarian efforts by HH the Amir spreading worldwide. He also expressed pride over the honoring of HH the Amir who “hurries to offer aid and relief” to countries at times of distress. Mershid congratulated HH the Amir for the world honoring, on behalf of all members of the Supreme Judicial Council.

Naming Amir ‘humanitarian leader’ source of pride: KFAED

KUWAIT: Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) voiced pride yesterday over naming His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a “humanitarian leader” and proclaiming Kuwait as an international humanitarian center. In an exclusive report for Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the Fund said that the anticipated naming ceremony, to be held at the UN’s headquarters in New York on September 9, is a sign of Kuwait’s significant international standing, and its role in finding solutions for world problems.

The report underlined keenness of HH the Amir to help combat poverty and starvation through HH’s initiative to establish the Decent Life Fund in Muslim countries, as well as donating USD 100 million to support basic food items for the needy in a swift manner. Both initiatives took place during the fourth World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF), which was held in Kuwait in April 2008. It further pointed out that beneficiaries of the Fund are the ones least developed and most poor; which accounts for 22 out of 56 Member states at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which each country receiving a grant that does not exceed USD 10 million or less than USD one million according to population.

The Fund also emphasized importance of the third Africa Arab Summit in November 2013 and the March 2014 Arab Summit, both held in Kuwait with the aim of boosting economic and political cooperation. Holding these two major summits in Kuwait under the wise leadership of HH the Amir sustains its position as the best place to hold such events in the region, the report said. Such position was also manifested back in 2009 when Kuwait hosted the first Arab Economic Summit, which saw Kuwait’s USD-500-million contribution to help fund Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) throughout the Arab world. And, 2010 KFAED organized the International Donors and Investors Conference for East Sudan that resulted in yet another Kuwaiti contribution of USD-500-million.

Humanitarian gestures and directives of HH the Amir collectively contributed in improving the quality of life for many people, as well as providing job opportunities that helped limit poverty and starvation, said the report. It also recalled HH’s initiative of summing up USD one billion in financial resources to be footed for achieving developmental goals non-Arab Asian countries and to fulfill the UN’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In this regard, HH announced a USD-300- million contribution to the program during the 2012 Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), also held in Kuwait.

UN honoring of His Highness the Amir "unprecedented event" -- Advisor

NEW YORK-- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah's honoring by the United Nations is an "unprecedented event" that reflects Kuwait's status amongst nations, said Advisor at the Amiri Diwan Mohammad Abulhassan here late Tuesday.

Through the UN's long history, the honoring of His Highness the Amir, which was held yesterday, was an outstanding occasion which showcased Kuwait's efforts in the humanitarian field, said the official in a statement during a reception held by Kuwaiti Permanent Envoy to the UN Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi.

The efforts of His Highness the Amir was the main reason behind Kuwait's humanitarian reputation; thus, it's not strange to see His Highness being awarded with the "Humanitarian Leader" title, said Abulhassan.

UN honoring of His Highness Amir as Humanitarian Leader appreciates Kuwait - Official

KUWAIT-- Information Ministry Undersecretary Salah Al-Mubarki said on Thursday that United Nations naming of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a Humanitarian Leader and the State of Kuwait as global humanitarian center comes to in appreciation of the role of the country and its charities.

Al-Mubarki, also and deputy chairman of the standing committee for celebrating the national holidays and events, said in an interview with Arab and foreign media here that the fingerprints of His Highness the Amir in humanitarian work date back to many decades ago when he assumed several positions and contributed to the humanitarian action.

The Undersecretary pointed to Kuwait's long history in the humanitarian action, a tradition that passes through generations, adding that after Kuwait's independence charitable work has become institutionalized through a number of agencies, private or public.

Al-Mubarki noted that the most important players in this domain are Kuwait Red Crescent Society, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) which extended its projects to many countries, and the Zakat House in addition to efforts made by a number of prominent Kuwaiti figures.

The official added that Kuwait State television will broadcast on the evening of September 9 the proceedings of the ceremony to honor His Highness the Amir in United Nations headquarters in New York including a speech by His Highness the Amir on the occasion.

Int'l Islamic Charity Org. translates Kuwait's humanitarian message 

KUWAIT-- The International Islamic Charity Organisation has translated Kuwait's humanitarian message in extending a helping hand to impoverished people around the world.

 The Kuwait-based charity's work stems from the teachings of the Islamic faith and the generosity the people of Kuwait are known for.

The United Nations honouring ceremony of His Highness the Amir on September 9 as a 'humanitarian leader' and Kuwait as an international humanitarian hub is the result of many years of extensive efforts the country has pursued under the instructions of His Highness the Amir.

The International Islamic Charity Organisation has been one of the organs that has contributed to these efforts.

After two donor conferences for the displaced inside and out of Syria which helped raise USD 3.5 billion, some of the pledges made by Kuwait were carried out through projects, some of which were assumed by IICO.

 The Kuwait Model Village in Turkey, a camp for displaced Syrians was constructed under the supervision of IICO, consisting 1,000 homes, four schools, two mosques and two clinics, with two similar projects carried out in Jordan.

Following the success of the two international conferences, which had been accompanied by non-government fund-raisers, Kuwait then proceeded to hold another meeting of donors under the chairmanship of UN Secretary General envoy for humanitarian affairs, Amiri Diwan advisor and IICO chief Abdullah Al-Matouq.

His Highness the Amir, leader who never let humanity down - economists

KUWAIT-- The United Nations naming of Kuwait as "global humanitarian hub" and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as "global humanitarian leader" is well-deserved for a universal symbol of giving and generosity, economists concurred in separate interviews with KUNA.

They also described His Highness the Amir as a leader of a country that never let down humanity.

"The UN naming His Highness the Amir as a global humanitarian leader is not a strange or unexpected decision. It is a choice of a man who struggled over his life for the dignity of people everywhere," Director General of Kuwait Stock Exchange Falah Al-Ragba told KUNA Wednesday.

"He has won the world's respect since he was a dean of diplomatic corps. And after assuming power, he exerted relentless efforts to help crisis-stricken countries worldwide to develop their communities and economies through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development.

The UN has recently named Kuwait a "global humanitarian hub" and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah as a "humanitarian leader" and announced plans to honor His Highness in a huge ceremony at its New York Headquarters on September 9 in recognition of his international humanitarian role.

For his part, Chief Executive Officer of Kuwait Oil Tankers Company Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah said the UN honoring of His Highness the Amir is fully backed with a long list of humanitarian initiatives and contributions from which tens of millions of people benefited.

"His Highness the Amir is always pioneering in rendering a helping hand to people in distress either those who suffer as a result of natural disasters, war or political unrest," Sheikh Talal told KUNA.

"Moreover, naming of Kuwait as global humanitarian hub is also well-deserved, as it has never let down any country in need even countries which are distance away and has no strong ties with Kuwait." Meanwhile, Chairman of Kuwait Banking Association Hamad Al-Marzouq echoed a similar view.

"The UN naming and planned honoring of His Highness the Amir is a source of pride for Kuwaiti government and people," Al-Marzouq told KUNA.

"This honoring crowns a huge record of humanitarian work that served the whole world." He added that His Highness the Amir is a role model for the humanitarian advocacy.

"He is always ahead in rushing to the assistance of traumatized people and his actions have added to the international standing of Kuwait," Al-Marzouq said.

It's a global medal of honour add to HH' unique qualities

M. E. Times: "World recognition of the Kuwait Amir is a beacon for the Arab nation"

By: Middle East Times Int'l

The United Nations resolution honouring His Highness the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and giving him the title of "Global Humanitarian Leader", is worldwide recognition and a historic tribute to the Kuwaiti Emir. The UN has taken a wise, right and fair decision, reflecting the authenticity, humanity and conscience of the people of Kuwait and its civilisation whose ethics are carved in history.

This tribute is a beacon for the Arab nation and great honour on the forehead of every noble Arab.

It is with joy and pride that we applaud the nomination of His Highness the Emir of Kuwait (Global Humanitarian Leader) as the prince of diplomacy -- a wise, experienced and far-sighted leader; always seeking goodness, extending aid and calling for peace, tolerance, harmony and stability locally, regionally and internationally.

This great honor and eloquent appreciation are a global badge of honor, in addition to the beloved Amir unique qualities and many achievements in humanitarian work. They are countless -- they filled the world – and helped make Kuwait a "Global Humanitarian Centre".

His Highness the Emir of Kuwait name will be set in the memory of history; his heart full of tenderness and goodness will reside in our conscience, hearts and in the memory of all Kuwaitis.

Every morning, at sunrise, we will remember Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad as a "Global Humanitarian Leader" for a lifetime. The name of Sabah will remain a badge of honor on our chests.

The initiative honoring His Highness the Emir of Kuwait is the first of its kind in the history of the General Assembly of the United Nations. It is a distinctive, and rare, precedent that we received with pride.

On this bright occasion, the management of "Middle East Times International" presents its warmest heartfelt congratulations, wishing His Highness the Emir of Kuwait continued success and longevity -- and to the state of Kuwait and its people  prosperity, glory ,pride and majesty.

United Nations Secretary General Ban Kimoon