India Observes National Mourning For Qatar's Former Amir
India declares July 13 national mourning, flags to fly at half-mast. PM Modi pays tribute to Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani.

India has declared July 13 as a day of national mourning following the demise of Qatar's former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. The decision was made by the Government of India as a mark of respect for the late leader.
The national flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where it is regularly flown, and there will be no official entertainment on the day. This is a symbolic gesture of respect and solidarity with the people of Qatar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the passing of Sheikh Hamad, describing him as a visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity. PM Modi also recalled his meeting with the former Amir during his visit to Qatar in February 2024, and conveyed his sincere condolences to the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the entire royal family and people of Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, and his reign was marked by significant economic, social, and cultural development. Qatar's status among the Arab and international community was also elevated during his leadership.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced that Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will visit Qatar shortly to convey condolences on behalf of the Indian government. This visit is a further demonstration of India's respect and friendship with Qatar.
India and Qatar have enjoyed strong bilateral relations, with cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and security. The two countries have also strengthened their people-to-people ties, with a significant number of Indians living and working in Qatar.
The national mourning declared by India is a testament to the strong bond between the two nations and their leaders. It is a gesture of respect and solidarity with the people of Qatar during this time of grief.
Sheikh Hamad's legacy will be remembered for his contributions to Qatar's development and his role in strengthening the country's relations with India and other nations. His passing is a loss not only for Qatar but also for the international community.
In the coming days, India will continue to express its condolences and support to the people of Qatar. The national mourning on July 13 will be a solemn occasion for Indians to pay their respects to the late Amir and to reflect on the strong friendship between India and Qatar.
The significance of this event lies in the strong bilateral relations between India and Qatar, and the respect that India has for the late Amir's contributions to Qatar's development. It is a demonstration of India's commitment to its friendship with Qatar and its people.
In conclusion, the national mourning declared by India for Qatar's former Amir is a gesture of respect and solidarity with the people of Qatar. It is a testament to the strong bond between the two nations and their leaders, and a demonstration of India's commitment to its friendship with Qatar and its people.