New Delhi: The Government of India has declared a one-day national mourning on July 13 following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Father Amir and former ruler of Qatar, who passed away on Sunday.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the National Flag will be flown at half-mast across India on all buildings where it is regularly displayed, and there will be no official entertainment during the day of mourning.
Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is expected to travel to Qatar to convey condolences on behalf of the Government of India.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the former Amir's demise, describing him as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar through remarkable economic, social and cultural progress and strengthened the country's standing in the Arab world and internationally.
The Prime Minister also recalled meeting Sheikh Hamad during his visit to Qatar in February 2024 and described him as a true friend of India. He conveyed condolences to Qatar's Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the royal family and the people of Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. His tenure was marked by rapid national development and the expansion of Qatar's global influence, according to a statement issued by the Amiri Diwan.
With IANS inputs