[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.