Prime Minister Modi Expresses Condolences to Qatar's Amir on Father Amir's Passing

Condolences from India to Qatar

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, to express his sincere condolences following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir. Modi emphasized that the legacy of the late leader will continue to inspire both nations in their efforts to enhance their strategic partnership.

The Father Amir passed away on July 12 at the age of 74. In tribute, the Indian government declared a day of national mourning on July 13, with flags at half-mast across the country. Modi shared on 'X', "I spoke with HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, and conveyed my heartfelt condolences on the passing of HH the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. I remembered his deep affection for India, his warmth towards the Indian community in Qatar, and his unwavering commitment to India-Qatar relations. His enduring legacy will guide our two nations as we work to strengthen our Strategic Partnership."

To convey condolences on behalf of the Indian government, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju was dispatched to Qatar. Rijiju, who serves as the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, traveled to Doha on July 14 to express India's sympathies. The Father Amir ruled Qatar for 18 years before stepping down in 2013. Modi had previously acknowledged the Father Amir as a "visionary leader who propelled Qatar to remarkable development and prosperity," recalling their meeting during his visit to Qatar in February 2024.