Kuwait city: The vibrant history of Kuwait is marked by significant events that have contributed to its progress and development. One such milestone occurred in 1948, with the publication of "Kathma," the first monthly literary-social magazine in Kuwait, spearheaded by Ahmad Al-Saqqaf. However, the magazine's run was brief, ceasing publication in 1949, just nine months after its debut.
According to Kuwait News Agency, in 1961, British forces arrived in Kuwait at the request of Amir Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, under the Kuwaiti-British friendship treaty, to counter Iraqi threats. This marked a pivotal moment in Kuwait's defense history. In 1968, another significant development was the approval of the Arab cooperation treaty for the peaceful use of nuclear energy by Kuwait's Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah.
The year 1974 saw an increase in the franchise fees for the Kuwait Oil Company, with adjustments made from the 1955 treaty's 12.5 percent to 14.5 percent, reflecting changes in income tax and spending revenues. Additionally, Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah issued a decree to establish the Public Authority for Housing Welfare.
In 1979, Kuwait implemented the civil service law through the Civil Service Commission, marking a step forward in governance. By 1981, Kuwait had joined international conventions related to oil pollution, reflecting its commitment to environmental concerns.
The establishment of free trade zones in 1995, following a law signed by Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, highlighted the country's focus on economic growth. In 1997, Kuwait's customs introduced a 70-percent tax on tobacco and cigarette products, a significant increase from the previous rate.
Kuwait's defense and security were further strengthened in 2001 with the signing of a law approving the GCC joint defense treaty. The establishment of a national security college in 2006 by Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah aimed at preparing leaders for key positions.
The political landscape was marked by the 2009 National Assembly's vote of confidence in Minister of Interior Sheikh Jaber Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, with 30 MPs opposing a motion of no-confidence. In 2010, a central produce market was established in Al-Sulaibiya, enhancing trade and commerce.
Kuwait's commitment to international cooperation was evident in 2013 when the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development loaned Sudan KD 25 million for an irrigation project. The Ministry of Social Affairs took a step towards inclusivity in 2014 by establishing a creative society for people with special needs.
The achievements continued in 2016 with the Ministry of Electricity and Water winning the Special Achievement in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Award. In 2019, the Kuwait Oil Company signed a substantial offshore drilling contract with Halliburton International, valued at KD 181 million.
The passing of Munira Al-Mutawa in 2021 marked the end of an era for an activist who championed the rights of people with special needs. Her legacy includes the establishment of the Kuwaiti society for the disabled and contributions to the first Kuwait law for the disabled in 1996.