New Delhi, July 12: India observed a one-day national mourning on Monday to honor the memory of former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, who passed away at the age of 74. The Government of India announced the tribute in recognition of his remarkable contribution to Qatar’s development and his enduring role in strengthening diplomatic relations between India and the Gulf nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the respected leader, describing him as a visionary who transformed Qatar into one of the world’s most prosperous countries. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said Sheikh Hamad would always be remembered as a trusted friend of India and recalled his personal interaction with him during his visit to Qatar in February 2024.
Offering condolences to the Qatari leadership, PM Modi extended his sympathies to the reigning Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the royal family, and the people of Qatar. He noted that Sheikh Hamad’s leadership left a lasting legacy of progress, modernization, and international cooperation.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the Government of India declared a one-day national mourning as a mark of respect. As part of the observance, the national flag was flown at half-mast across the country on all government buildings where it is regularly displayed. In addition, all official entertainment programmes scheduled for the day were cancelled.
The ministry also announced that Union Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is expected to travel to Qatar shortly to formally convey India’s condolences to the Qatari leadership on behalf of the Government of India.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani served as the Emir of Qatar from 1995 until 2013. During his tenure, he oversaw sweeping economic reforms, infrastructure expansion, and diversification initiatives that transformed the energy-rich nation into a major regional and global player. His leadership also elevated Qatar’s diplomatic influence and strengthened its international partnerships.
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who continues to serve as the Emir of Qatar. The peaceful transition of leadership was widely regarded as a significant moment in the country’s modern political history.
Officials and diplomatic observers recalled that Sheikh Hamad consistently maintained warm relations with India. His reign witnessed a significant increase in the Indian expatriate community in Qatar, with thousands of Indian professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, and skilled labourers contributing to Qatar’s economic growth.
The late leader visited India on several official occasions, including state visits in 1999, 2005, and 2012. Apart from these diplomatic engagements, he also made private visits, reflecting his personal interest in maintaining close ties with the country.
His relationship with Indian leadership remained cordial throughout the years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Sheikh Hamad during his landmark visit to Qatar in February 2024, while External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had also interacted with the former Emir during his visit to Doha in December 2020.
Following Sheikh Hamad’s passing, Qatar announced a four day period of public mourning. Tributes have poured in from leaders around the world, acknowledging his role in reshaping Qatar’s economy, expanding its global diplomatic presence, and fostering regional stability.
The observance of national mourning by India reflects the deep strategic partnership that has evolved between New Delhi and Doha over the decades. The two countries share strong cooperation in energy security, trade, investment, defence, and the welfare of the large Indian community residing in Qatar.
As India pays tribute to the former Qatari ruler, government officials emphasized that Sheikh Hamad’s contribution to bilateral relations will continue to be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of India-Qatar friendship. His vision, statesmanship, and commitment to strengthening international cooperation have left a lasting legacy that continues to influence relations between the two nations.