Leaders from Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East have converged on Doha to pay their respects following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar's former emir who ruled from 1995 to 2013. The visits come as Qatar observes a four-day period of national mourning for the man widely credited with shaping the modern Gulf state.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was among the first European heads of government to arrive, meeting Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the Lusail Palace to express condolences. Swiss Vice President Ignazio Cassis also traveled to the capital on Tuesday to offer his sympathies.
Global Tributes and Diplomatic Outreach
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described Sheikh Hamad as "an outstanding statesman" whose leadership transformed Qatar. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Morocco's Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch were among regional leaders who paid their respects. Rwandan President Paul Kagame also made the journey, calling Sheikh Hamad "a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today."
Sheikh Hamad's reign saw Qatar expand its role as an international mediator, develop one of the world's largest liquefied natural gas industries, and secure the rights to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His legacy is deeply tied to the country's rapid economic, diplomatic, and cultural transformation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has often called Qatar his "second home," visited the Lusail Palace and posted on social media that Sheikh Hamad taught him "that bravery means embracing change and always moving forward." Infantino's presence underscores the enduring link between Qatar's global sporting ambitions and its late emir's vision.
The gathering in Doha highlights Qatar's continued influence on the world stage, a position Sheikh Hamad helped forge. For a deeper look at his life and impact, see our obituary: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Architect of Modern Qatar, Dies at 74.
As European leaders join the mourning, the event also reflects Qatar's strategic ties with the continent, from energy partnerships to diplomatic mediation. The country's role as a host for major events, including the World Cup, has cemented its place in global affairs—a legacy that Sheikh Hamad set in motion.
