His Majesty King Hamad yesterday issued a statement mourning the late Father Amir Shaikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and condoling with the Amir of Qatar, Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
He expressed profound grief and sorrow on receiving the news of the passing of the Father Amir.
His Majesty described the late Father Amir as a brother, friend and the leader of a dear country and people.
The Qatari leader was a statesman who had dedicated his life to the service of his country, his people and the Arab and Islamic nations, the King said.
His Majesty said that, on a personal level, he had lost a brother and a friend before losing a leader.
He recalled with pride the strong relationship that had bound him to the late Father Amir, describing it as a sincere brotherhood and friendship that extended over many years.
His Majesty said they had shared official meetings, private programmes and travels that strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and friendship between them and left a profound impact on him.
The King added that this period had been among the finest of his life, marked by mutual affection and esteem.
His Majesty recalled desert excursions, majlis gatherings and private trips that brought him together with the late Father Amir. He noted that they would remain among the most cherished memories with his late brother and friend.
The King shared in the profound grief of Shaikh Tamim, the Al Thani Family and the people of Qatar, extending his sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies over their grave loss.
His Majesty prayed that Allah the Almighty grant the late Father Amir mercy and eternal peace, and bestow patience and solace upon Shaikh Tamim, the Al Thani family, his relatives, loved ones and all those mourning his passing.
His Majesty also expressed full confidence that Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani would continue leading the country and advancing the path of development and progress established by the late Father Amir.
He wished Shaikh Tamim continued success in serving Qatar and advancing the progress and prosperity of its loyal people.
The Royal Court announced that, by order of His Majesty, an official mourning period has been declared in Bahrain for four days, with flags to be flown at half-mast across the kingdom throughout the period, beginning today.
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