Doha: Ambassador of India to Qatar, H.E. Vipul, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of HH Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describing him as a visionary statesman whose leadership transformed Qatar into one of the world's most developed and prosperous nations. On behalf of the Government of India, the Embassy of India and the Indian community in Qatar, the Ambassador extended heartfelt condolences to HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Royal Family and the people of Qatar during this period of national mourning.

The Ambassador paid tribute to the late Father Amir's remarkable vision and foresight, noting that his leadership laid the foundation for Qatar's extraordinary progress in energy, infrastructure, education, culture, sports and human resource development. He said the Father Amir's progressive policies transformed the country into a dynamic modern nation and established Qatar as an influential player in international diplomacy.

Highlighting the close and enduring relationship between India and Qatar, Ambassador Vipul said India and the Indian community would always cherish the affection, support and goodwill extended by HH Father Amir. He recalled that the late leader visited India three times as the Amir of Qatar - in 1999, 2005 and 2012-in addition to making several personal visits, which significantly strengthened bilateral ties between the two countries.

The Ambassador also noted that the Indian community in Qatar remembers HH Father Amir as a compassionate and caring leader who always showed concern for the welfare of every resident of the country. Reflecting on a personal memory, he said he had the privilege of attending the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and HH Father Amir during the Prime Minister's visit to Qatar in February 2024, describing it as a memorable moment that reflected the warmth and strength of India-Qatar relations.

Referring to Prime Minister Modi's condolence message, Ambassador Vipul said the Indian Prime Minister remembered HH Father Amir as a visionary leader who guided Qatar to unprecedented development and prosperity and as a true friend of India. He added that the Father Amir's enduring legacy would continue to inspire both countries to further strengthen their longstanding friendship and strategic partnership.

As a mark of respect to the late Father Amir, the Ambassador noted that the Government of India has declared one day of national mourning. Concluding his message, he prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed solidarity with the leadership and people of Qatar during this time of profound grief.

Follow Rehaab Online on WhatsApp (Click here to join the group)