Every year on this day, the State of Kuwait celebrates its Independence Day, commemorating this cherished national occasion that embodies sovereignty and dignity. It marks a pivotal stage in the nation’s journey—a history shaped by the efforts of its loyal sons.

On June 19, 1961, Kuwait took its first steps toward building an independent, fully sovereign state after the late Amir Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah declared the end of the protection agreement with Britain. This ushered in a new era of political independence and comprehensive development, establishing Kuwait as a fully sovereign nation in control of its land and resources.

This day stands as one of the most pivotal milestones in the modern state’s journey. Over the past 64 years, Kuwait has achieved remarkable accomplishments across all fields, guided by forward-looking plans that addressed the nation’s developmental needs. It has also played a central role in regional and international affairs while gaining global recognition for its humanitarian aid efforts.

Since then, Kuwait has continued its steady progress under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (may God protect him) and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah (may God protect him), advancing domestic development and pursuing preventive diplomacy regionally and internationally.

Following the signing of the independence document on June 19, 1961, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah addressed the Kuwaiti people, saying:
"On this glorious day in our beloved homeland… a day when we transition from one historical phase to another, we close a chapter of the past with all its burdens and open a new page with this agreement, through which Kuwait has attained full independence and complete sovereignty."

Nearly three years later, on May 18, 1964, a decree was issued merging National Day with Accession Day—the anniversary of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah’s assumption of power on February 25 each year.

The signing of the independence document followed deliberate steps taken by Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah since he assumed power in 1950. He worked tirelessly to achieve independence and establish a constitution, particularly as the nation was poised for progress in all fields.

On August 26, 1961, an Amiri decree was issued to elect a Constituent Assembly, fulfilling Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem’s vision of establishing a governance system based on solid foundations. The elected assembly drafted a 183-article constitution within nine months, embodying democratic principles.

Kuwait’s constitution reflected a progressive spirit, offering the Kuwaiti people democratic solutions to embark on a path of development and prosperity. It enabled the nation to adopt a democratic way of life, rooted in this comprehensive constitution ratified by an elected assembly of Kuwaiti citizens.

After independence, Kuwait began enacting laws and regulations to solidify its sovereignty, passing 43 civil and penal laws, including those on nationality, Kuwaiti currency, passports, and government organization. An Amiri decree was also issued to establish a comprehensive judiciary overseeing all legal disputes in the country.

Kuwait also established its international presence by joining numerous regional and global organizations, actively participating in regional, Arab, and international events.

On November 30, 1961, the UN Security Council began reviewing Kuwait’s membership request. By May 14, 1963, Kuwait was approved as the 111th member of the United Nations.

Even before independence, Kuwait had well-structured administrations ready for expansion, including Public Works, Public Health, Publications, Education, Municipality, Postal Services, Electricity and Water, Social Affairs, Awqaf (Endowments), and Radio & Television.

Post-independence, Kuwait steadily embraced the new world order and international legitimacy, rejecting aggression, protecting human rights, respecting state sovereignty, and non-interference in other nations' affairs. It also believed in the UN’s role in maintaining global peace and security.

64 years after independence, Kuwait continues to pursue dynamic plans and strategies to enhance domestic development while maintaining a balanced, moderate foreign policy focused on preventive diplomacy. It works with sisterly and friendly nations to prevent conflicts, promote peaceful dispute resolution, and foster stability.

Kuwait’s independence remains a symbol of a people’s determination to claim their freedom and turn aspirations into reality. This legacy entrusts future generations with the responsibility to build upon foundations of pride and dignity—for a nation is not built merely by celebrating its past, but through dedicated efforts for its future.