HH the Amir started by congratulating the newly-elected MPs, expressing hope they would be able to carry out their responsibilities in the most proper manner and that they would do their best for the nation and its people.
"I would like to congratulate everybody on the voting process, which was carried out in an environment of freedom and democracy – something which was admired and commended by the people as well as Arab and international observers," he said.
"We are at the crossroads of a new stage of democratic parliamentary practice. It is not right and unacceptable, while we celebrate 50 years of the issuance of our declaration, for us to speak of a parliamentary ‘experiment’.
"Instead, we speak of a recognized accomplishment in the name of humanity and a steady and forwards path that has overcome early beginnings and has withstood the storms.
"It is our duty to work to improve its role and achieve its aims, while learning from our past mistakes," he said.
HH the Amir highlighted the recent unprecedented minor clashes which took place prior to the elections, which he said represent a clear breach of law, insult the pride of the people and threaten to destroy the nation.
"These are not the characteristics of bravery or freedom – we utterly reject them," he stressed.
"We totally reject any breach of the law or any attempt for people to take the law into their hands… Kuwait remains a nation of institutions and law." On the path of development and growth, he said the nation faces tough challenges, calling on the Kuwaiti people to unite.
He also urged against sedition and any attempts to counter public freedoms. He spoke of the sanctity of public funds, the principles of integrity and transparency and combating corruption in the land.
On education and youth, he called on the parliament to ensure the improvement of curricula, to that of the level of the advanced world, in addition to an expansion of initiatives aimed at the youth.
On a final note, he reiterated his remarks on the role, the Kuwaiti people have bestowed upon their representatives.
They were called upon "to rise to the level of the challenges of reform, comprehensive development and grave developments and changes on the international scene."
