Kinshasa, July 12th, 2026 (CPA). – President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has extended his condolences to the people of Qatar following the death on Sunday, at the age of 74, of Qatar’s Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whom he described as a leader of « exceptional » stature, according to the Congolese Presidency.
« His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was universally recognized for his great wisdom, transformative vision and exceptional leadership, which greatly contributed to Qatar’s development, international standing and modernization. Under his leadership, Qatar also emerged as a major player and a trusted mediator on the international diplomatic stage, » the condolence message published on the X account of Tina Salama, spokesperson for the Head of State, read. « On behalf of the Government and the Congolese people, the Head of State extends his most sincere and heartfelt condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, as well as to the Royal Family and the entire Qatari people, » the source added. President Félix Tshisekedi, who said he had learnt with profound sadness of the passing of the former ruler on Sunday, called on the Congolese people to honor the memory of the distinguished statesman. « In these painful circumstances, the President of the Republic invites the Congolese people to remember this eminent statesman with reverence and to join the Royal Family and the people of Qatar in prayer during this time of mourning, » the same source added.
Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died on July 12th, 2026, at the age of 74. He ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and is widely regarded as the architect of the country’s modern transformation into a global liquefied natural gas powerhouse. After assuming power in 1995, Sheikh Hamad modernized the country’s infrastructure, diversified its economy and strengthened its diplomatic influence on the international stage. He also launched major investments abroad, notably in sports through the acquisition of the French football club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).