President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his condolences following the death of the former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
In a post on social media, the President said he shared in the grief over the passing of Sheikh Hamad, describing him as a visionary and wise leader whose leadership made a significant contribution to Qatar's development and progress.
President Muizzu extended his condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, on the loss of his father. He also conveyed his sympathies to the Qatari Royal Family, the Government and the people of Qatar, and prayed that Sheikh Hamad be granted the highest ranks of Jannatul Firdaus and eternal peace.
Sheikh Hamad also played an important role in supporting development in the Maldives through assistance provided across several sectors. His contributions included funding projects for the construction and renovation of mosques. Among the most notable projects supported by Qatar during his reign is the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani School in Gan, Laamu Atoll.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died at the age of 74. His death was announced by the Amiri Diwan, the office of the Emir of Qatar, on 12 July.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013 and is widely regarded as the architect of the country's modern development. During his reign, Qatar experienced rapid economic and social transformation, with significant growth in its oil and gas sector and a substantial increase in gross domestic product, helping establish the country as a leading regional and global economic power.