The story: The appointment of Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah as crown prince has been widely welcomed in Kuwait. Many observers see the move as historic and geared to shape the country’s future political direction. The appointment is expected to bring political stability and economic reforms needed to advance lagging national development plans. The crown prince also faces heavy expectations that he will help boost Kuwait's regional standing, notably embarking on a trip to Jeddah only days after taking office. 

The coverage: Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on June 1 issued a decree nominating the...