PM Modi condoles demise of former Qatar Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describes him a visionary leader
New Delhi, July 12
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condoled the passing away of Father Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and said he was a visionary leader who led his country to great levels of development and prosperity.
The Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the people of Qatar.
"We deeply mourn the passing of Father Amir of the State of Qatar, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. A visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity, we remember him also as a true friend whom I had the honour of meeting during my last visit to Qatar in February 2024. I convey my sincere condolences to the Amir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the entire royal family and people of Qatar. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace," PM Modi said in a post on X.
The father emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan, State of Qatar, said earlier.
"With hearts steadfast in faith in God's decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late - may God have mercy on him - His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning," the Amiri Diwan said in a statement on Sunday.
Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, was a key architect of the energy-rich country's stunning development. During his reign, the country saw economic, social and cultural development that bolstered its status in the international community, Al Jazeera reported.
Sheikh Hamad's tenure also saw the promulgation of Qatar's first permanent constitution in 2004 and the introduction of municipal elections, in which women were allowed to vote and stand as candidates, as per Al Jazeera.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I remember when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup—that was under his vision. But let's not forget the migrant worker issues during that time. Still, a significant figure for the Gulf and India's energy security. RIP.
Our PM's diplomacy with Gulf nations is commendable. Sheikh Hamad was a key figure in making Qatar a global player. The 2004 constitution and women's participation were progressive for the region. May his soul rest in peace. 🇮🇳🤝🇶🇦
True statesman. Under his rule, Qatar became a major LNG exporter, which benefits India's energy needs. But I wish more was done for the millions of Indian workers there during his era. Still, a loss for the region.
Sheikh Hamad's vision transformed Qatar from a sleepy Gulf state to a global hub. The Al Jazeera network itself was a bold move that amplified Arab voices. PM Modi's visit in February shows how strong India-Qatar relations are. RIP to a visionary. 🌹
He was indeed a progressive leader for the region—brought democracy at the municipal level and gave women rights. But let's be honest, the royal family's wealth and Qatar's reliance on migrant labour remain concerns. Still, a significant loss.
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