President Paul Kagame traveled to Doha to personally convey Rwanda’s condolences to the leadership and people of the State of Qatar following the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whose leadership is widely recognized for helping transform Qatar into a modern and influential nation. According to the Office of the President of Rwanda, President Kagame met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to express sympathy on behalf of the Government and people of Rwanda and to reaffirm the strong friendship that continues to unite the two countries during this period of national mourning.
During the meeting in Doha, President Kagame extended his condolences directly to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and expressed solidarity with the Qatari people as they mourn the loss of the Father Amir. In an official statement shared by the Presidency of Rwanda, the visit was described as an opportunity for the Rwandan Head of State to offer comfort and support to Qatar’s leadership while honoring the legacy of a leader whose influence extended well beyond his country’s borders. The Presidency stated that President Kagame met Sheikh Tamim “to convey his condolences on the passing of his beloved father, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and to express his solidarity with the people of Qatar during this time of mourning.”
Earlier, President Kagame issued a public message paying tribute to the late Father Amir, emphasizing both his leadership and his enduring contribution to Qatar’s development. In his official statement, President Kagame said, “My deepest condolences to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, his family and the people of Qatar on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.” He further praised the late leader’s vision, adding, “His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today. His legacy of service to his people and commitment to friendship and cooperation among nations will endure for generations.”
President Kagame also reaffirmed Rwanda’s support for Qatar during its time of grief, stating, “At this difficult time, the people of Rwanda and I stand with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and our Qatari brothers and sisters.” The message reflects the close diplomatic relationship that Rwanda and Qatar have cultivated in recent years through cooperation in investment, aviation, trade, and broader international engagement.
The visit to Doha underscores Rwanda’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic partnerships and demonstrating solidarity with friendly nations during significant national moments. By delivering condolences in person, President Kagame highlighted the importance Rwanda places on its relationship with Qatar while honoring the life and legacy of a statesman whose leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s modern development.
