Kuwait is marking the 53rd independence anniversary, recalling the day, June 19, 1961, when the country declared full autonomy and sovereignty over its territory after a period of being a British protectorate.
The document stating end of protectorate status was signed by the Chief British Political Resident in the Persian Gulf Residency, Sir George Humphrey Middleton, and late Amir Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, who was fondly dubbed "father of the constitution" by his people, in recognition of the many key achievements during his reign.
The atmosphere in Kuwait was leading in the direction of this development since start of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem's reign as 11th Amir in 1950.
Kuwait joined a number of international organizations even before declaration of independence. Most notably, the state joined the World Health Organization, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), OPEC, and the UNESCO in 1959. Just six days short of declaration of independence, the state also joined the World Labor Organization as well.
The 15 years of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem's rule were times of moderate and balanced policy and strong interaction with international bodies, as well as strong support and involvement in all Arab and Islamic causes. Throughout his rule, the late head of state proved an exceptional statesman.
After June 19, 1961, Kuwait joined Arab League, and was later accepted member of the United Nations in 1963.
Internally, the state took swift steps to organize and regulate all aspects of life and state management and created the majority of institutions need to properly run a modern-day state and its relations and dealings with both nationals and expats. All in all, the bulk of the state's administrative infrastructure saw light in relatively a short period of time.
In the field of diplomacy, the first few years after independence were just as eventful, with creation of the 'foreign affairs department' in August 1961. Current Amir, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah became the state's Foreign Minister in the second cabinet, in January 1963.
As "father of the constitution", Kuwaitis are still most proud of their 11th Amir for his efforts leading to the drafting and adoption of the state's constitution, November 11, 1962.
In recognition of many accomplishments, and in a token of love of their leader, Kuwaitis chose to officially celebrate independence on the same day Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah assumed post of Amir in 1950, and Independence Day was marked on February 25 ever since.