PM Modi, Qatar Amir reaffirm to strengthen Strategic Partnership during condolence call over Father Amir's passing
New Delhi, July 17
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar's Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani have reaffirmed their resolve to carry forward the legacy of Qatar's Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani by further strengthening the India-Qatar Strategic Partnership and people-to-people ties.
The two leaders held a telephone conversation on Thursday during which Prime Minister Modi conveyed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of Qatar.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Prime Minister Modi recalled the Father Amir's significant contributions as the chief architect of modern Qatar and paid tribute to his visionary leadership.
"Prime Minister paid tribute to his visionary leadership and recalled his pivotal role in strengthening India-Qatar relations over the years as well as his deep affection for India and the Indian community in Qatar," the MEA statement said.
The Amir of Qatar thanked Prime Minister Modi for his call and conveyed his appreciation for the words of support during the difficult hour.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said, "Spoke with H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar and conveyed heartfelt condolences on the passing of H.H. the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Recalled his deep affection for India, his warmth towards the Indian community in Qatar and his steadfast commitment to India-Qatar relations. His enduring legacy will continue to guide our two countries as we further strengthen our Strategic Partnership."
The two leaders reaffirmed their resolve to carry forward Father Amir's legacy and further strengthen bilateral ties. They also agreed to remain in close touch.
The call follows a period of national mourning in India, during which the government declared July 13 as a day of state mourning as a mark of respect for the late leader.
Prime Minister Modi had previously described the Father Amir as a "visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity" and a "true friend" of India, whom he had the honour of meeting during his visit to Doha in February 2024.
The father of Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, died at the age of 74.
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
The way PM Modi personally called the Amir shows how seriously India takes its relationships with Gulf nations. Sheikh Hamad was indeed a visionary - he modernized Qatar while maintaining its cultural identity. Our strategic partnership with Qatar is vital for LNG imports and expat welfare. A gentle tribute indeed. 🇮🇳🇶🇦
I respect the diplomatic sensitivity shown here. Sheikh Hamad's legacy includes Al Jazeera, the Qatar Foundation, and the development that led to hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. For India, he was a friend who opened doors for trade and investment. The strategic partnership is indeed in good hands.
While condolences are appropriate, I hope India doesn't become too dependent on any single country for energy. The relationship with Qatar is important, but we should diversify our strategic partnerships. Still, Sheikh Hamad's contributions to India-Qatar ties can't be denied - our diaspora there has always spoken highly of his warmth towards them.
It's impressive how Sheikh Hamad balanced tradition with modernity - introducing a constitution and municipal elections while preserving Qatari culture. For India, his leadership meant a reliable energy partner and a home for millions of Indian workers. May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️
The Indian government's declaration of state mourning shows the depth of our bond. Sheikh Hamad wasn't just a foreign leader - he was a true friend who ensured our diaspora's welfare. I hope the current Amir continues this legacy. The 2024 meeting between PM Modi and the Amir in Doha was a sign of things to come. 🇮🇳
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.