*** ----> Kuwait loses key reformer Sheikh Nasser | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Kuwait loses key reformer Sheikh Nasser

AP | Kuwait City

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Kuwait’s Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al Sabah, the eldest son of the late emir, who emerged as an influential reformer in the Gulf country, died on Sunday, the country’s state-run news agency reported. He was 72.

Sheikh Nasser held various government posts over the years including minister of defence and deputy prime minister.

The Kuna news agency did not specify how Sheikh Nasser died, but he was known to be in fragile health after having a lung tumour removed two years ago.

In a country that depends on oil for some 90 per cent of its revenues, Sheikh Nasser championed bold plans to diversify Kuwait’s economy by building up a business hub with a free zone and deep seaport in the country’s north.