The world has come together in Qatar to honor the memory of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani the Father Emir who passed away on Sunday at the age of 74. His reign from 1995 to 2013 marked a period of unprecedented growth and modernization for the nation. As mourners gather, a diverse array of international leaders has arrived to pay their respects to the late emir and his successor, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The Amiri Diwan has organized a three-day reception at Lusail Palace beginning on Monday, to accommodate the influx of dignitaries and citizens wishing to express their condolences. The event underscores the profound impact Sheikh Hamad had on both regional and global stages.
Middle Eastern and North African Leaders Pay Tribute
The outpouring of support from neighboring countries has been substantial. On Monday morning, Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain and Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah of Kuwait were among the first to offer their condolences. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt followed suit on Tuesday morning, highlighting the late emir’s significant diplomatic influence.
Other notable attendees from the region include Prime Minister Nawaf Salam of Lebanon, President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria, and President Nizar Amidi of Iraq. The Kurdish region of Iraq was represented by Second President Nechirvan Barzani who paid his respects on Monday evening. The United Arab Emirates sent a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Crown Prince of Ajman Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.
Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab League Representation
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab League have also sent their top officials to Qatar. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi the Secretary-General of the GCC, and Nabil Fahmy the Secretary-General of the Arab League, both offered their condolences on Tuesday morning. Their presence underscores the late emir’s role in fostering regional cooperation and unity.
International Leaders from Europe, Africa, and Asia
The international community has shown its respect through the attendance of various heads of state. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy and Vice President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis were among the European leaders who offered their condolences. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also paid his respects on Monday evening, acknowledging the late emir’s contributions to global sports.
Africa was well-represented by leaders such as President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, President Azali Assoumani of the Comoros, and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda. From South Asia, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan and President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives were present, along with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan represented the Asia Pacific region.
The outpouring of support from these diverse leaders reflects the global impact of Sheikh Hamad’s leadership and his enduring legacy. As Qatar continues to mourn, the international community stands united in honoring a man who transformed his nation and left an indelible mark on the world.
