Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has left for Doha to express India’s condolences following the passing of Qatar’s former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died at the age of 74 on July 12. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that Sheikh Hamad, known as the “Father Amir,” played a crucial role in modernizing Qatar and fostering a strong friendship with India. India has declared a day of national mourning in honor of Sheikh Hamad’s demise, with flags flown at half-mast in Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over Sheikh Hamad’s death, praising him as a forward-thinking leader and a genuine friend. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani led Qatar from 1995 to 2013 before passing on leadership to his son, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. Under his rule, Qatar experienced significant growth in various sectors, enhancing its standing both regionally and globally.
