President Muizzu Departs for Qatar to Pay Respects to Former Amir
- President Muizzu departed for Qatar to pay respects following the death of former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
- Sheikh Hamad, who died Sunday at 74, ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing its rise as a global energy and diplomatic power.
- The Maldives and Qatar, with ties dating to 1984 and restored in 2021, maintain cooperation through diplomacy, aviation and tourism.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has departed for Qatar to pay respects following the death of the country’s former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
The President is representing both the Maldivian state and its people during the official visit, according to the President’s Office.
During the visit, President Muizzu will convey condolences to the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, members of the Royal Family and the people of Qatar. Foreign leaders and other dignitaries are also expected to travel to Doha to join the country’s mourning ceremonies.
Sheikh Hamad died on Sunday at the age of 74. He ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim.
His 18-year rule coincided with Qatar’s emergence as a major natural gas exporter and an increasingly influential participant in international diplomacy, media and investment. He also oversaw the expansion of Qatar’s international aviation sector and the country’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Maldives and Qatar established diplomatic relations in May 1984. Relations were temporarily suspended in June 2017 during the Gulf diplomatic crisis but were restored in March 2021 following regional reconciliation.
Since the restoration of ties, the two countries have maintained engagement through diplomatic exchanges, air connectivity and cooperation in international and Islamic forums. Qatar Airways’ operations between Doha and the Maldives also support tourism and provide international connections through Hamad International Airport.
President Muizzu extended condolences to the Qatari leadership on Sunday, describing the former Amir as a leader who contributed significantly to Qatar’s development and international standing.
