Venezuela's acting president mourns death of Qatar's former emir

Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, conveyed profound grief following the death of Qatar's former emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away at the age of 74.

In a message shared on her Telegram channel, Rodríguez extended heartfelt condolences to the current emir, the Al Thani family, and the people of Qatar. She lauded the former emir's "legacy and leadership" in developing a modern nation with international influence and for his significant contributions to fostering friendship and cooperation between Qatar and Venezuela.

"We lift our prayers for his eternal rest and accompany the people of Qatar in this moment of deep mourning," Rodríguez stated. She also recalled her recent visit to a field hospital in Caracas, established by Qatar following recent earthquakes, and expressed gratitude to the current emir for his ongoing support to Venezuela.

The death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was announced by the Amiri Diwan, Qatar's sovereign body, though the specific cause of death was not disclosed. He ruled Qatar from 1995 until his voluntary abdication in 2013, passing the reins to his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During his 18-year reign, the former emir was instrumental in the ambitious development of the oil-rich Gulf nation, enhancing its economic, social, and cultural standing on the international stage.