Gulf Times

The Indian community will hold a condolence meeting today in honour of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, with a former Indian diplomat, longtime residents, and community organisations highlighting HH the late Father Amir’s contributions in leading Qatar to great heights with his visionary leadership. Under the aegis of the embassy of India, in collaboration with community organisations, the condolence meeting will take place at the Ashoka Hall of the Indian Cultural Centre from 7.30pm. Officials of Indian Cultural Centre, Indian Community Benevolent Forum, Indian Sports Centre and Indian Business and Professional Council will lead the proceedings of the condolence meeting. India’s ambassador to Qatar Vipul will be delivering the condolence message while leading officials and dignitaries are expected to take part in the meeting. Meanwhile, recalling his association with HH the late Father Amir, former Indian ambassador to Qatar Sanjiv Arora (2012-2016) paid tribute to him and said that the loss was an irreparable one for the country and the international community. “Distressed by the passing of HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, a visionary leader with a global stature,” he said in a statement shared with Gulf Times. “We would always cherish the audiences with His Highness and fondly remember his kindness,” Arora said. “Deepest condolences to all the people of Qatar for whom the love of His Highness was boundless. Praying for him.” K C Abdul Latheef, a longtime resident and a social activist who came to Qatar as a student four decades ago, said that he had the privilege of witnessing one of the most remarkable national transformations under the guidance of HH Sheikh Hamad. Offering his condolences to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the ruling family, and the people of Qatar on the passing of HH Sheikh Hamad, Latheef said: “We mourn a great leader whose enduring vision and monumental legacy will continue to guide Qatar’s journey for generations to come.” “His Highness possessed an extraordinary ability to look beyond the present and prepare Qatar for generations to come,” he said. “Under his leadership, the country transformed from a developing nation into a globally respected state with world-class infrastructure, education, healthcare, communications, sports, and economic institutions.” “His vision was never limited to economic prosperity alone; it was rooted in creating a knowledge-based society while preserving Qatar’s identity, culture, and values,” Latheef continued.He noted that HH the late Father Amir also established Qatar as a trusted voice in international diplomacy. “Through principled leadership, humanitarian initiatives, and constructive dialogue, Qatar earned global recognition as a credible mediator committed to peace and conflict resolution,” Latheef said. “The nation’s natural resource wealth was wisely invested not only in the development of Qatar but also in education, humanitarian relief, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and development initiatives across the world,” he added. “This balance between national progress and global responsibility remains one of his greatest legacies.” Latheef remarked that for the Asian expatriate community, particularly Indians, HH Sheikh Hamad will always be remembered with deep gratitude.“During his leadership, Qatar became a land of opportunity where millions of expatriates could pursue education, careers, and better lives for their families,” he pointed out. “The contributions of the Indian community were recognised and valued, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and shared progress.” Mourning the passing of HH Sheikh Hamad, Centre for Indian Community (CIC) Qatar president RS Abdul Jaleel said that it is a profound loss for Qatar and for all those whose lives have been touched by his extraordinary vision and leadership. “His Highness laid the foundation for the modern State of Qatar, transforming it into a nation admired for its progress, stability, innovation, and humanitarian values,” he said. “His visionary leadership in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations.” Jaleel highlighted the establishment of landmark institutions and initiatives such as Qatar Foundation, Qatar Charity, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and many other national projects as enduring examples of HH Sheikh Hamad’s strategic vision and pioneering model of sustainable development.“The Indian community in Qatar will always remain grateful for the opportunities, dignity, and sense of belonging fostered under his leadership,” he added. “His commitment to tolerance, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence made Qatar a second home for millions of expatriates from around the world.”