President Hassan Sheikh and Foreign Minister Offer Condolences to Qatar on Passing of Former Emir

DOHA – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has arrived in Doha at the head of a delegation to offer his condolences to the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, following the passing of the former Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

The President met with the Qatari Emir at the Lusail Palace, where he conveyed his sympathies to the government and people of Qatar, expressing deep sorrow over the death of the former Emir and praying for his soul to rest in peace. President Mohamud also extended his condolences to the Al Thani family, the Qatari leadership, and the people of Qatar, asking God to grant them patience and fortitude during this period of mourning. He reaffirmed that Somalia stands in solidarity with Qatar during this difficult time.

Foreign Minister Signs Condolence Book in Mogadishu

Separately, Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, visited the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Mogadishu to sign the condolence book and deliver a message of sympathy on behalf of the Federal Government and the Somali people.

The Minister was received by the Deputy Ambassador of Qatar to Somalia, Dr. Abdullah bin Salem Al Nuaimi. Minister Abdisalam conveyed his condolences to the Emir, the royal family, the government, and the brotherly people of Qatar.

A Legacy of Reform and Modernisation

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar for 18 years before abdicating in 2013 in favour of his son, Sheikh Tamim. He is widely credited with modernising Qatar’s economy, expanding its international influence, and implementing significant political and social reforms. Under his leadership, Qatar transformed from a small Gulf state into a major player on the world stage, launching the Qatar Foundation, establishing Education City, and overseeing the creation of Al Jazeera. His vision for modernisation also included significant infrastructure projects and the successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

A Growing Strategic Partnership

Somalia and Qatar have developed a close diplomatic alliance over the past decade, with Doha emerging as one of Mogadishu’s most critical partners, particularly since the deterioration of relations between Somalia and the UAE. Somalia and Qatar formalised a historic defence cooperation agreement in Doha in January 2026, strengthening military ties and security collaboration between the two countries.

The two countries have established a joint committee and finalised strategic agreements, with the inaugural session jointly led by Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali and Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The high-level discussions concluded with the signing of four comprehensive agreements targeting development in cultural, financial, youth, and agricultural sectors.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has held talks with Qatar’s Ambassador to Somalia, Dr. Abdullah bin Salem Al-Nuaimi, to reinforce bilateral relations and explore avenues for expanded cooperation across multiple sectors. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Qatar for its sustained support in infrastructure development, humanitarian assistance, and initiatives aimed at preserving the unity and stability of Somalia.

Qatar has been an important partner in Somalia’s infrastructure projects, humanitarian initiatives, and security sector reform. President Mohamud has engaged in high-level discussions with Qatar’s Emir to deepen bilateral cooperation, with Doha reaffirming its full support for Somalia’s legitimate institutions and its commitment to enhancing the country’s security and stability.

Way Forward

The condolences extended by President Mohamud and Foreign Minister Abdisalam reflect the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Somalia and Qatar. As Qatar mourns the loss of its former leader, Somalia has demonstrated its solidarity with the Qatari people, underscoring the enduring partnership between the two nations. The visit also provided an opportunity for the leaders to discuss bilateral relations, regional developments, and matters of mutual concern, further strengthening the strategic alliance between Mogadishu and Doha.