ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday expressed deep grief and sorrow over the passing of former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, paying tribute to his visionary leadership and contributions to Qatar’s development.
The former Qatari ruler, who led the Gulf nation from 1995 to 2013 before handing power to his son Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, died at the age of 74, Qatar’s Amiri Diwan announced.
In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary statesman whose wisdom, foresight and commitment to public service transformed Qatar into a modern, prosperous and globally influential nation.
Deeply saddened by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Former Amir of the State of Qatar.
The Father Amir, late Sheikh Hamad was a great leader and statesman whose wisdom, foresight and dedication to public service, transformed Qatar into a…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 12, 2026
The prime minister said the late emir’s contributions to Qatar’s progress, regional peace, development and international cooperation would be remembered for generations.
He conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan to Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, and the people of Qatar.
“We stand in solidarity with them in this moment of profound grief,” the prime minister said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also recalled Sheikh Hamad’s longstanding affection for Pakistan, saying his visits to the country and his warm relations with its people would always be cherished.
He prayed for the departed soul and for strength and patience for the bereaved royal family and the people of Qatar.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also expressed profound sorrow over the demise of the former Qatari emir.
In a message on social media platform X, Dar said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Sheikh Hamad, whose leadership played a pivotal role in Qatar’s modern transformation.
Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Emir of the State of Qatar.
During his reign, he played a pivotal role in Qatar’s modern development and in strengthening the bonds of friendship with Pakistan. His visionary…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) July 12, 2026
He highlighted the late emir’s efforts in strengthening Pakistan-Qatar relations and praised his contributions to regional peace and stability.
Dar said Sheikh Hamad’s visionary leadership and services would continue to be remembered for years to come.
“On behalf of the people, government of Pakistan and myself, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Al Thani family, the Emir, the government and the people of Qatar,” he said.
The deputy prime minister also prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and courage for the bereaved family to bear the loss.
During his rule, Sheikh Hamad significantly enhanced Qatar’s global standing through major diplomatic, economic and media initiatives, including the expansion of Al Jazeera and the successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Under his leadership, Qatar emerged as a major global energy player, becoming the world’s leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and expanding its influence in international diplomacy.
Sheikh Hamad abdicated in June 2013 in favour of his son Sheikh Tamim, marking one of the few peaceful transitions of power in the modern Gulf region.
