Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies Aged 74

Reuters

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who transformed the country from its Bedouin roots into a major regional power, has died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan, Qatar's highest governing body, announced on Sunday.

Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he stepped down in favour of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in a rare voluntary transfer of power by a hereditary Gulf ruler aimed at ensuring a smooth succession.

"The Amiri Diwan announced the death of HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani on Sunday morning. May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him the best reward for what he achieved for his homeland and nation," the Diwan said.

Sheikh Hamad who transformed the country into a leading regional and global player, has died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan, Qatar's highest governing body, announced on Sunday.

During his 18-year reign, Sheikh Hamad significantly raised Qatar's international profile, overseeing the launch and expansion of the Al Jazeera television network and securing the country's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Despite its relatively small population of just over 2.5 million, Qatar emerged under his leadership as the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), a major global investor and an influential diplomatic player in the Middle East.

Sheikh Hamad came to power in 1995 after peacefully deposing his father in a bloodless coup, ushering in an era of rapid economic growth and increased international influence that reshaped Qatar's role on the world stage.

Source: Reuters



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