Monday 13 / July / 2026
Muscat: Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, has paid tribute to the late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describing him as a visionary leader whose legacy transformed Qatar into a regional and global success story.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Al Busaidi said the late Emir was a symbol of wisdom, generosity and foresight, combining strategic political leadership with a deep commitment to development and the welfare of his people. He also praised Sheikh Hamad's lasting contributions to media, culture and humanitarian work.
The minister said Sheikh Hamad laid the foundations for Qatar's modern economic and urban renaissance and initiated the country's long-term development agenda through the Qatar National Vision 2030. Under his leadership, Qatar emerged as one of the world's leading producers and exporters of natural gas, significantly strengthening its global economic standing.
Al Busaidi also highlighted the establishment of Al Jazeera during Sheikh Hamad's reign, describing it as a landmark media institution that enhanced Qatar's international profile while projecting the voices and perspectives of the Gulf region onto the global stage.
He noted that the late Emir played a pivotal role in positioning Qatar as a trusted international mediator, with Doha becoming a major venue for peace talks, conflict resolution and diplomatic negotiations. Sheikh Hamad, he said, was known for his courage, principled leadership and commitment to promoting peace, dialogue and reconciliation.
The foreign minister further praised the late leader's emphasis on humanitarian assistance, saying Qatar expanded relief operations and supported education and healthcare initiatives that benefited millions worldwide. He cited humanitarian efforts in Palestine, Sudan, Somalia, Lebanon and Afghanistan as examples of Sheikh Hamad's enduring legacy.
Reflecting on bilateral ties, Al Busaidi recalled the strong fraternal relationship between Oman and Qatar during the era of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said and Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. He said those close relations have continued to flourish under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The minister added that Sheikh Hamad consistently promoted dialogue as the preferred path for resolving disputes, maintaining communication even during periods of regional tension. He said the late Emir's wisdom and diplomatic approach left a lasting mark on efforts to foster understanding and cooperation among nations.
