The Centre has declared one-day national mourning on July 13 as a mark of respect for Father Amir of State of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India on all buildings where the National Flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences over the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describing him as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into a prosperous nation and remained a close friend of India.
The MEA said that Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju is expected to visit Qatar to convey condolences on behalf of the Government of India.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 before voluntarily handing over power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During his 18-year reign, Qatar witnessed rapid economic, social and cultural transformation, significantly enhancing its regional and global standing.
