President of the Federal Republic of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has directed all government institutions and Somali embassies around the world to fly the national flag at half-mast in solidarity with the people of Qatar following the death of Qatar's Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died at the age of 74 and was buried in Doha on Sunday.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, the Somali government said the decision reflects the close ties between Somalia and Qatar and demonstrates the country's support for the Qatari people during their period of mourning.
The Presidency noted that lowering the national flag at government offices and diplomatic missions represents the brotherhood between the two nations as Somalia stands with Qatar following the loss of one of its leaders.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also sent a message of condolence to Qatar's ruler, Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the royal family and the people of Qatar, expressing sympathy over the passing of the Father Amir and offering prayers for the deceased.
"I extend my sincerest condolences to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and to the noble family and the fraternal Qatari people, on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. I ask God to envelop the deceased in His vast mercy and to inspire you all with patience and solace," President Hassan said.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was laid to rest in Doha after a funeral held at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque following the evening prayer. His death was announced earlier on Sunday, bringing to an end the life of the man widely credited with reshaping Qatar over nearly two decades in power before handing leadership to his son.
Sheikh Hamad became the ruler of Qatar in June 1995 after taking power from his father in a bloodless coup.
During his time in office, Qatar experienced major economic growth driven by its large natural gas reserves, allowing the country to become one of the world's wealthiest nations and expand its influence in regional and international affairs.
His leadership also saw Qatar increase its role in diplomacy, investment and global affairs while developing infrastructure and institutions that transformed the country's economy. His rule, however, also attracted international attention over issues including Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which followed the country's winning bid in 2010.
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad stepped down from power and transferred authority to his son and heir apparent, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who was then 33 years old. The transition marked one of the few voluntary abdications by a hereditary ruler in the Gulf region and was viewed as a significant moment in Qatar's political history.
The African Union also joined governments and international organisations in mourning the former Qatari ruler. In a condolence message issued on behalf of the African Union Commission, Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed sorrow over Sheikh Hamad's death and praised his contribution to diplomacy, peace and cooperation.
The African Union described Sheikh Hamad as a leader whose efforts left a lasting impact across the Arab world and Africa, noting that his work strengthened relations and cooperation between Qatar and many African countries over the years.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf extended condolences to Qatar's leadership, government, the royal family and the people of Qatar, saying the African Union stands with the country during its period of mourning. He also offered prayers for the late Father Amir, asking that Allah grant him eternal peace and give strength, patience and comfort to his family and to the people of Qatar as they mourn his passing.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google