Diplomats Pay Tribute to Qatar's Father Amir in Kuwait

Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 14, 2026 ALN: The Embassy of the State of Qatar in Kuwait received mourners who offered condolences on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, amidst expressions of sorrow and appreciation for his contributions to his country and the region. Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013 in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is widely recognized for transforming Qatar into a significant player on the global stage.

The tributes paid to Sheikh Hamad reflect not only the deep respect held for him within Qatar but also the broader regional and international recognition of his leadership. His tenure saw Qatar evolve from a relatively obscure nation into a prosperous state with a substantial influence in global affairs, largely due to his visionary leadership and strategic investments in various sectors including education, health, and infrastructure.

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Kuwait Anne Koistinen expressed her deepest condolences to the government and people of Qatar on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Koistinen stated that the relationship of the EU with Qatar is characterized by strength and closeness, emphasizing the great respect of the EU for the deceased, who was known for his moderate voice in the region. This relationship has been strengthened through various bilateral agreements and cooperative initiatives that have been established over the years, particularly in the fields of trade, energy, and security.

She added that Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani made significant contributions to the modernization and development of Qatar, pointing out his prominent role in enhancing his country’s regional and international standing. Under his leadership, Qatar invested heavily in education and healthcare, establishing institutions that have gained international acclaim, such as the Qatar University and the Hamad Medical Corporation.

Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy Steven Butler expressed his profound sadness over the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, praising his role in building modern Qatar. He said Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was a visionary leader who contributed to establishing the Qatar we know today. His vision included a focus on diversifying the economy away from oil dependency, which has enabled Qatar to withstand global economic fluctuations more effectively.

Butler added that his relationship with the deceased had a personal dimension, indicating that his first diplomatic posting was in the Qatari capital, Doha. This personal connection underscores the importance of diplomatic relationships that have been fostered over the years, highlighting how Sheikh Hamad's leadership style encouraged openness and collaboration with foreign diplomats and nations.

United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Kuwait Ghada Al-Taher offered her sincere condolences to the government and people of Qatar on the passing of HH the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Her remarks reflect the sentiment shared by many international organizations that have benefited from Qatar's active participation in global humanitarian and developmental efforts.

Jordanian Ambassador Sinan Al-Majali stressed that HH the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani left an indelible mark on the development of Qatar and contributed to strengthening its regional and international standing. “He was also a staunch supporter of Arab cooperation and solidarity,” he added. His efforts in promoting Arab unity and cooperation are particularly noteworthy in a region often characterized by political divisions.

Al-Majali stated that the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, its leadership, government, and people extend their deepest condolences and sincere sympathies to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, and to the ruling family and the brotherly Qatari people. This sentiment is echoed by many nations in the Arab world, reflecting the deep-rooted ties among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members.

Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Abu Al-Wafa expressed his profound grief over the passing of HH the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, may Allah have mercy on him. He asserted that the deceased made a significant contribution to Qatar’s renaissance and the remarkable development and progress it witnessed. Sheikh Hamad's leadership was pivotal during a time of significant change in the region, and his diplomatic efforts helped to foster stability and development in the Gulf.

Abu Al-Wafa said that HH the late Father Amir played a prominent role at the Gulf, Arab, and international levels. He affirmed that Qatar, during his reign, experienced a distinguished development journey that made it a prominent model in the region. His legacy includes initiatives such as the Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into an advanced society capable of sustaining its development.

He added that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi will visit the State of Qatar to offer his condolences to HH the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and to share the grief of the Qatari leadership and people in this painful loss. Such high-level visits underscore the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations and mutual respect between the two nations.

Omani Ambassador Dr. Saleh bin Amer Al-Kharousi indicated that His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was one of the well-known leaders who contributed to the renaissance of the State of Qatar. He cited his vital role in supporting the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and strengthening joint Gulf action. Sheikh Hamad was instrumental in promoting regional initiatives that aimed to enhance cooperation among GCC countries.

Al-Kharousi stated that HH the late Father Amir left a significant legacy in supporting development and Gulf cooperation, and also contributed to consolidating the fraternal relations between Oman and Qatar. His efforts in fostering unity among Gulf states have been recognized as crucial in addressing regional challenges and conflicts.

Bahraini Ambassador Salah Al-Maliki stressed that the passing of HH the Father Amir is a great loss for the State of Qatar and the Arab and Islamic nations, given his rich legacy of achievements and contributions to serving his country and his people. The impact of his leadership extended beyond Qatar, influencing regional politics and contributing to the collective Arab identity.

He said HH the Father Amir dedicated his life to serving his nation and achieving a comprehensive renaissance for the State of Qatar, while solidifying its regional and international standing. His dedication to public service and national development has set a standard for leadership in the region.

Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye Tuba Nur Sönmez affirmed that relations between Turkiye and the State of Qatar are considered a unique model of strategic partnership. She said His Highness the Father Amir played a vital role in establishing these relations and elevating them to unprecedented levels. The partnership between Qatar and Turkiye has been characterized by mutual respect and collaboration across various sectors, including defense, trade, and culture.

She stated that HH the Father Amir holds a special place in the hearts of the Turkish people and leadership, praising his insightful vision and contributions to building modern Qatar and enhancing its presence and standing on the regional and international stages. This sentiment highlights the importance of personal relationships in international diplomacy, where mutual understanding and respect can lead to fruitful partnerships.