Cuba mourns former Emir of Qatar, highlighting strong bilateral ties

The Cuban government has officially lamented the passing of Qatar's former Emir, Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, recognizing his significant contributions to the development of both Qatar and the historical relationship between the Gulf nation and the Caribbean island.

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Cuba shares the pain that grips the friendly Qatari people and extends its heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Qatar, His Highness, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, his family, the government, and that brotherly people.

President Miguel Díaz-Canel shared his condolences on social media, extending sympathies to the current Emir, Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, the royal family, the government, and the people of Qatar. He specifically noted the former emir's decisive role in building modern Qatar and referred to him as a "dear friend of the Cuban people and of Commander in Chief" Fidel Castro.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez echoed these sentiments, expressing heartfelt condolences and underscoring the former emir's contribution to fostering "historic bonds of friendship and solidarity" between the two nations. The late former emir governed Qatar for 18 years, from 1995 to 2013, overseeing a period of substantial economic, social, and cultural advancement that bolstered Qatar's international standing.

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contributed decisively to the development of the modern and thriving State of Qatar and was a dear friend of the Cuban people and of Commander in Chief

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani voluntarily abdicated in 2013, passing the leadership to his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Qatar has declared a four-day period of national mourning in honor of the former emir, who will be buried in the Lusail Cemetery north of Doha.

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his contribution to the development of the historic bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two nations