Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to convey India’s condolences on the passing of Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The outreach, alongside national mourning and an official visit to Doha, underscored the importance India places on its strategic partnership with Qatar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to convey India’s condolences over the passing of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Remembering the late leader’s contribution to bilateral ties, PM Modi said his enduring legacy would continue to guide India and Qatar as the two countries deepen their strategic partnership.
This came days after India observed a one-day national mourning in honour of the former Qatari ruler, reflecting the importance New Delhi attaches to its relationship with Doha and the late leader’s role in strengthening those ties.
Sharing details of the conversation on X, Prime Minister Modi said he conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Qatar and recalled Sheikh Hamad’s affection for India and the Indian community living in the Gulf nation.
“Spoke with HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar and conveyed heartfelt condolences on the passing of HH 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.”
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, widely regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, passed away on July 12. During his leadership, Qatar emerged as one of the world’s wealthiest nations and significantly expanded its diplomatic and economic engagement with countries across the globe, including India.
KIREN RIJIJU REPRESENTS INDIA IN QATAR
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju travelled to Qatar to represent India at the condolence ceremonies and personally conveyed the country’s sympathies to the Qatari leadership.
In a post on X, Rijiju said he delivered condolences on behalf of the Government of India, Prime Minister Modi and the people of India.
“On behalf of the Government of India, Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji and the people of India, I conveyed deepest condolences to HH the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the sad demise of Father Amir of Qatar HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.”
Rijiju also thanked the Qatari leadership for the warm reception extended to him during the visit. He expressed gratitude to the Amir, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries for their hospitality and for their continued warmth towards India and the Indian community living in Qatar.
Highlighting Sheikh Hamad’s contribution to bilateral relations, Rijiju said the former ruler played a key role in laying the foundation of the close partnership the two countries enjoy today.
