In a message shared on Sunday following the announcement of Sheikh Hamad’s passing, President Kagame conveyed his sympathies to Qatar’s current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, his family, and the people of Qatar.
“My deepest condolences to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, his family and the people of Qatar on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani,” Kagame wrote.
President Kagame praised Sheikh Hamad’s contribution to Qatar’s development, saying he would be remembered for his leadership and efforts to strengthen cooperation among nations.
“His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today. His legacy of service to his people and commitment to friendship and cooperation among nations will endure for generations,” Kagame said.
He added that Rwanda stands in solidarity with Qatar during the period of mourning.
“At this difficult time, the people of Rwanda and I stand with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad and our Qatari brothers and sisters,” Kagame said.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died at the age of 74, ruled Qatar from 1995 until he handed power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in 2013.
He is widely credited with shaping modern Qatar through a period of rapid economic growth, global expansion and major investments that elevated the country’s international influence.
During his reign, Qatar emerged as a major player in global energy, diplomacy, and investment, while securing the rights to host major international events, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Leaders from across the world have paid tribute to the former Emir, praising his role in Qatar’s transformation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also described Sheikh Hamad as a “visionary leader who guided Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity,” while leaders from the Arab world expressed condolences to Qatar’s leadership and people.
The Qatari government announced Sheikh Hamad’s death through the Amiri Diwan, saying the nation had suffered a “great loss” with the passing of the former Emir.
Leave a Reply