DOHA, Oct 24 (APP): President Mamnoon Hussain met Sheikh Tamim
bin Hamad Al Thani here at Emiri Diwan and expressed condolence over
sad demise of Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, former ruler of the
energy rich Gulf State of Qatar and the grandfather of Sheikh Tamim,
who passed away on Sunday night.
The President, who was on a four day official visit at the invitation of the Emir of Qatar and was scheduled to hold talks with Sheikh Tamim on Monday, cancelled his all official engagements after hearing about the passing away of Sheikh Khalifa.
Besides holding talks with the Emir of Qatar, the President’s official engagements on Monday included his meetings with Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Interior Minister of the State of Qatar and Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, father of the Emir of Qatar.
The Emir of Qatar has announced a three day national mourning over the passing away of Sheikh Khalifa, who ruled the State of Qatar as its Emir from 1972 to 1985.
During his meeting with the Emir of Qatar, President Mamnoon Hussain said he was deeply saddened to learn about the sad departure of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, for his heavenly abode. “May Allah Subhaanahu Wa Taala Bless his soul and Grant him the highest rank in Jannah. (Ameen)”
“The people of Pakistan share the grief and stand with their Qatari brothers and sisters in this hour of grief,” he said.
The President said that with passing away of Sheikh Khalifa, Pakistan has lost a true friend and would always remember him with gratitude, for laying the foundation and strengthening Pakistan Qater relations.
Sheikh Khalifa was a visionary leader, who served the people of Qatar with great sincerity, and his contribution to the welfare and development of the people of Qatar will always be remembered, he
added.
The President further said that his loss was equally felt by the Islamic world due to his commitment to Islamic causes and the unity of Ummah. “My thoughts and prayers are with Your Highness, your family, and we pray, Allah Almighty to give you the strength
and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
The President on this occasion also thanked the Emir of Qatar
for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. “I look
forward to Insha Allah meet you at a more appropriate time,” he
added.
Earlier, President Mamnoon Hussain also attended Namaz e Janaza (funeral prayers) for late Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani.
