Farewell to the Great Commander
Qatar, the sister nation, bid farewell to its late leader, may God have mercy on him, His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The State of Kuwait conveyed its condolences to Qatar, and a four-day period of mourning was declared in Kuwait, in solidarity with Qatar. Grief and sorrow pervaded all, as the late leader was described as one of Qatar’s historic figures and the architect of its modern renaissance.
He was a visionary and wise statesman who dedicated his life to serving his country and people, as well as the causes of the Arab and Islamic nations. Under his reign, may God have mercy on him, Qatar witnessed a broad economic, social, and cultural renaissance. During his rule, the country’s permanent constitution was issued, and Qatar National Vision 2030 was formulated to develop a knowledge-based economy and transform Qatar into an advanced nation capable of achieving sustainable development.
Under his Highness’s leadership, Qatar experienced qualitative and pivotal developments across all sectors, with the formulation of strategic plans, developmental programs, and reform initiatives that led to a comprehensive renaissance in every field. The economy and energy sectors underwent significant growth, contributing to making the country the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and completing numerous major energy projects, alongside economic openness and the attraction of global investments.
Qatar became a hub for political, economic, cultural, health, and scientific conferences, attaining a prestigious regional and international standing in these areas, in addition to attracting several of the world’s leading universities. The late leader was keen on supporting youth and sports, and his country hosted numerous regional and international tournaments, most notably the announcement in December 2010 that Qatar would be the first Arab and Islamic country to win the right to host the FIFA World Cup.
During his reign, may God have mercy on him, Qatar witnessed extensive changes in various fields. Women were granted the right to vote and run in local elections and to work. Press freedom was strengthened, and investments in gas fields were increased to accelerate the pace of comprehensive development.
The ties between Kuwait and Qatar exemplify deep-rooted fraternal relations. Visits between the two sides were frequent, and Qatar’s wise leadership recorded its honorable stance in support of Kuwait’s just cause against the brutal Iraqi aggression, calling on Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait and adhere to relevant international legitimacy and resolutions. Furthermore, during the occupation, Qatar hosted Kuwaiti citizens and provided them with care and support in all areas. Kuwaiti-Qatari history is replete with evidence of the depth of relations and cooperation between the two countries across all eras.
I extend my deepest condolences to Qatar, its leadership, government, and people, on the loss of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. May God have mercy on him, forgive him, and grant him a spacious place in Paradise. Indeed, to God we belong, and to Him we shall return.
