Senior figures in eastern Libya have expressed condolences to the leadership and people of Qatar following the death of Qatar’s Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, at the age of 74.
Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, extended his condolences to Qatar’s leadership and people, describing the late ruler as an important figure in the history of the Gulf state.
In a statement, Saddam Haftar said he offered his sincere sympathy to Qatar following the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, praying for mercy upon the deceased and strength and patience for his family and the Qatari people.
Separately, Prime Minister Osama Hammad sent an official message of condolence to the Qatari leadership and people.
Hammad expressed his deep sorrow over the death of the former emir and affirmed his solidarity with Qatar during the period of mourning.
He also prayed for the late ruler to be granted mercy and for his family and the people of Qatar to be given patience and comfort.
Earlier on Sunday, Qatar’s Amiri Diwan announced the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled the country from 1995 until voluntarily handing power to his son, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in 2013. He was 74 years old.
Sheikh Hamad is widely regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, overseeing a period of rapid economic growth and expanding the country’s international influence in diplomacy, investment and energy markets.
Qatari authorities announced four days of national mourning, with flags to be flown at half-mast across the country during the mourning period.
