PARIS, Feb 9, (KUNA): Democracy was adopted early in Kuwait’s history and is by now a rich and strong practice, said spokesman of the French Foreign Ministry Bernard Valero in remarks to KUNA, Thursday, in comment over the recent parliamentary elections.
Valero noted the Sixth Article of the Kuwaiti Constitution, which states that “The system of government in Kuwait shall be democratic, under which sovereignty resides in the people, the source of all powers.” He said the country embraced this stipulation from early on and continued on this path.
“The ongoing political debate in Kuwait seems to be rich and important, considering the number and variety of issues and would-be representatives. The active and notable presence of youth and of women is also a sign of a political and democratic process which is livelier than ever.” The spokesman remarked that the themes in the candidates’ campaigns were in their majority very encouraging and worthy. There was due stress on national unity, fighting corruption, realistic argument in public debates and discussions, “and we all noticed the stress on shunning focus on narrow affiliations, whether social or religious, with stress ‘we are all Kuwaitis’.” Noting the 50th anniversary of adoption of the Kuwaiti Constitution, the official said, “it is up to Kuwaitis themselves to assess their development in this regard, and we could only say we are pleased with the lively elections held earlier this month.”
The official touched on human rights and freedoms in Kuwait. He said the country is exerting great effort on this track, since reconsideration of these rights in May 2010, and is member of the UN Human Rights Council.”
“Freedom of opinion in Kuwait is expanding,” Valero said, and added there was also gender equality with four women having served in the last parliament, which was significant within a 50-member assembly.
On women empowerment and equal opportunity, he said that “Kuwaiti women served as ministers, members of parliament, lawyers, engineers, managers, bankers, businesswomen, teachers, administrative staff and more.” The official also talked of Kuwaiti support to development initiatives in the Arab world and beyond. “Kuwait is known as an active and strong supporter of development efforts, particularly through its Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) which is also active in Africa.
“Kuwait is ever supporting the poorest countries and extends aid well over what is suggested by specialized European organizations. We hope to see this continue.” Valero also pointed out that Kuwait is active as mediator and influential player on regional and international issues.
“It is a country which opts for peaceful means of settling differences through dialogue and mediation, and which plays an important role in sorting out confusion which could lead to dispute sometimes within its Gulf context. We recall Kuwait’s mediation between the UAE and Oman in 2010, for example.” Even when it comes to dossiers relating to issues involving Iraq, the official said, “Kuwait showed willingness to consider a settlement on standing issues related to the Saddam Hussein aggression on the country.” He added Kuwait is keen on implementing UN resolutions and honoring the UN Charter and adheres to International Law.
Currently, Kuwait is an active mediator and coordinator in the deliberation among/with Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Arab League regarding the state of affairs in the Arab world, he remarked.