Vice President Sara Duterte extended her condolences to the State of Qatar following the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led the Gulf nation from 1995 to 2013.

Duterte visited the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Makati City last week to sign the book of condolences for Sheikh Hamad, who was known as the “Father Amir” of Qatar.

“Last week, we personally visited the Embassy of Qatar in the Philippines in Makati City to extend our deepest sympathies to the House of Thani and the people of Qatar following the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir of the State of Qatar,” Duterte said.

She also conveyed a message from former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Sheikh Hamad came to power in 1995 and oversaw Qatar’s rapid economic expansion, driven largely by the development of its natural gas industry.

LNG leader

During his rule, Qatar emerged as one of the world’s leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporters and expanded its diplomatic, media, and global investment influence.

Sheikh Hamad stepped down in 2013 and transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

“His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as Amir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and is widely recognized as the visionary leader who transformed the country into a modern and influential nation on the global stage,” Duterte said.