By Staff Writer
Nairobi, Kenya – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has arrived in Doha, Qatar, to convey Ethiopia’s condolences following the death of Qatar’s Father Amir and former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 74.
Sheikh Hamad served as Qatar’s ruler from 1995 until 2013 after assuming power from his father in a peaceful transfer of leadership. During his years in office, Qatar underwent significant economic and political changes that elevated its international profile. The country’s natural gas sector expanded rapidly, making it one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas and strengthening its influence in regional and global affairs.
His administration also invested heavily in media, finance, and international partnerships. In 1996, Qatar launched the Al Jazeera television network, which grew into one of the world’s most recognized international news broadcasters. The Qatar Investment Authority, established during his rule, expanded the country’s investments around the world, while Qatar also secured the right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further raising its global profile.
In June 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily stepped down and handed over power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the current Amir of Qatar. Following his death, Qatar declared four days of national mourning, with flags lowered to half-staff and government offices closed. He was laid to rest at Lusail Cemetery in Doha after funeral prayers at the Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque.
Prime Minister Abiy was received at Hamad International Airport by Qatar’s Minister of Transport, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani, and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Qatar, Faisal Ali Ibrahim.
Later, the Prime Minister met with Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Lusail Palace to personally convey Ethiopia’s condolences. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the visit reflects the long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and Qatar while honoring the legacy of a leader whose leadership helped shape modern Qatar and left a lasting impact across the region and beyond.
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