    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 3 (Monday, January 23, 2006)]
    [Page 78]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Death of Sheikh Jabir al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah of
    Kuwait

    January 17, 2006

        I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Highness Sheikh
    Jabir al-Ahmad al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait. Sheikh Jabir was a friend
    and steadfast and reliable ally of the United States. He supported the
    U.S. servicemen and women who fought to liberate Kuwait and later Iraq
    from the aggression and tyranny of Saddam Hussein. Sheikh Jabir worked
    tirelessly to provide a better future for Kuwait's citizens and was the
    driving force behind many reforms, including the establishment of a
    vibrant, elected Parliament and a free press. In his last months, he
    provided critical leadership to ensure that Kuwait's women achieved
    political rights. On behalf of the American people, Laura and I send our
    deepest condolences to Sheikh Jabir's family and to the Government and
    people of Kuwait on the passing of this historic leader.