DOHA: The Qatari government on Sunday announced the death of former leader Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, who led the country from 1995 to 2013, AFP reported.

"With hearts steadfast in faith in God's decree and destiny, the Bureau of the Emir mourns the great loss to the nation of the late -- may God have mercy on him -- His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani," read a statement published by the emir’s office on social media.

Thani was seen as one of the key architects of modern Qatar and led the country during a period of rapid economic growth.

During his time in office, the international broadcaster Al Jazeera was launched in 1996, following a decree issued by the former emir.

Pakistan president expresses deep grief

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep grief over the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Emir of the State of Qatar, said a statement released by President’s Secretariat.

The president extended his heartfelt condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the government and the brotherly people of Qatar on this sad occasion.

He paid tribute to the late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s visionary leadership and his valuable contributions to the progress and development of Qatar, as well as to regional peace and cooperation.

President Zardari prayed that Allah Almighty may grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannah and give strength and patience to the bereaved family and the people of Qatar to bear this irreparable loss.

Pakistan PM ‘deeply saddened’

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in a post on X stated: “Deeply saddened by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Former Amir of the State of Qatar.”

“The Father Amir, late Sheikh Hamad was a great leader and statesman whose wisdom, foresight and dedication to public service, transformed Qatar into a modern, prosperous and globally respected nation,” Sharif said in his post.

“His enduring contributions to the welfare of his nation and its people, as well as to regional peace, development and international cooperation, will be remembered for generations to come.”

The PM added, “On behalf of the people and the Government of Pakistan, as well as on my own behalf, I extend our heartfelt condolences to my Dear Brother the Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the distinguished members of the Al Thani family, the Government, as well as the brotherly people of Qatar on this solemn occasion. We stand in solidarity with them in this moment of profound grief.”

Qatari Government

Qatar's former emir Hamad bin Khalifa dies, Pakistan PM, president express grief