With hearts full of faith in God’s decree, the Arab and Islamic world received the news of the passing of the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, one of the most prominent leaders who left a clear mark on the modern history of Qatar, after a career full of dedication, achievement, and work for the advancement of his homeland and the enhancement of its standing regionally and internationally. The Qatari Amiri Diwan announced the death of the Father Emir yesterday morning, a news that stirred feelings of grief and sorrow inside and outside Qatar, due to the wide respect and high status the deceased enjoyed. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is considered among the figures whose name is linked to the major transformation phase that Qatar witnessed. Since he assumed leadership of the country in 1995, he worked on launching extensive development and reform projects aimed at building a modern state based on sustainable development, economic diversification, and investment in human capital. During his rule, the country witnessed significant development in education, health, infrastructure, and energy sectors, along with launching a long-term strategic vision that helped shape the future of Qatar.

Among his most notable achievements is also cementing Qatar’s presence on the international stage, strengthening its diplomatic role in many regional and international issues, in addition to supporting humanitarian and development initiatives around the world. He also gave great attention to investment in knowledge and scientific research, which was reflected in the establishment of leading educational and research institutions that became a destination for students and researchers from various countries.

On another note, the deceased was the first to lead Qatar to win the bid to host the 2022 World Cup, an unprecedented step on the Arab, Asian, and African levels. In this regard, we also note that in 2013, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa presented a remarkable model of smooth power transition when he handed over the reins of government to his son, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a step that reflected a belief in the importance of state continuity and leadership renewal, while continuing the development march he started.

The Father Emir was a national symbol for the people of Qatar, and during his years of leadership he was able to consolidate the foundations of the modern renaissance of the state and place it in an advanced position economically, developmentally, and politically. His achievements will remain part of the national memory and a legacy for generations to continue building and progressing.

On this painful occasion, we extend our sincerest condolences and sympathy to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, to the noble ruling family, and to the brotherly Qatari people, asking God Almighty to envelop the deceased in His vast mercy, to grant him a place in His spacious paradise, to reward him for what he offered his nation and his people, and to inspire his family, relatives, and the Qatari people with patience and solace.

The departure of great leaders leaves a void that is hard to fill, but what immortalizes their memory is the deeds, achievements, and steadfast positions they offered. The name of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will remain present in Qatar’s modern history as one of the most prominent architects of its renaissance, a symbol of national work and sincerity in serving his country, and his biography will remain a source of inspiration for all who believe that building nations begins with investing in people, planning for the future, and working tirelessly for the advancement and prosperity of the homeland. May God have mercy on the deceased. God is the source of success.

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- Kuwaiti writer