Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa has died

The former Emir of Qatar, father of the current Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, passed away at the age of 74. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

In connection with the death of the deceased, an official mourning period of four days has been declared in the country. This is reported by local official sources and state information agencies.

It is reported that mourning events will be held throughout Qatar starting from July 13. During this period, the activities of state institutions and a number of public organizations have been temporarily suspended, and state flags have been lowered to half-mast as a sign of mourning.

The people and government of the country received this heavy loss with deep sorrow. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.

He is recognized as one of the key figures who made a significant contribution to the country's modern development and shaped its current appearance. Under his leadership, Qatar's economy experienced unprecedented growth, foreign investment inflows increased sharply, and the country became one of the world's largest exporters of liquefied natural gas.

At the same time, Qatar's international political and economic influence significantly increased on a global scale. During the former Emir's rule, the Al-Jazeera media network was established in 1996.

Later, this channel became one of the most influential public media outlets in the world, ushering in a new era in illuminating regional life. Furthermore, in 2004, the country's first permanent Constitution was adopted, and important reforms were implemented in state governance.

In particular, a legal basis was created for women's participation in local elections, and democratic principles were strengthened in society. In 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

This decision was highly regarded as one of the rare, democratic and wise political moves in the history of the Gulf monarchies.

Today, Qatar is widely recognized around the world for its active participation in international affairs, leadership in the energy sector, and generous hospitality demonstrated during the high-level organization of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is a great loss not only for Qatar, but for the entire Arab world.