Nicosia, Cyprus. Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis visited Qatar’s embassy in Nicosia to sign the Book of Condolences for the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. She conveyed condolences to Qatar’s Amir, Royal Family, government and people.
Condolences and tribute
In a social media post, Hadjimanolis said Sheikh Hamad would be remembered for his contribution to Qatar’s development and for helping establish close relations between Cyprus and Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad’s legacy
Sheikh Hamad died on July 12 aged 74. He ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, when he transferred power to his son, the current Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
During his 18-year rule, Qatar developed its natural gas resources, becoming the world’s leading exporter of liquefied natural gas and a major international investor. His period in office also included the establishment of Al Jazeera and Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Cyprus-Qatar relations
Sheikh Hamad made an official visit to Cyprus in 2010, during which agreements were signed and cooperation between Nicosia and Doha was strengthened.
Diplomatic relations between Cyprus and Qatar were established in 2001. Cyprus opened its embassy in Doha in 2004, followed by the opening of Qatar’s embassy in Nicosia in 2007, the first Gulf embassy in Cyprus.
Cooperation has expanded to energy, investment, shipping, tourism and education. QatarEnergy is working with ExxonMobil in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone, including Blocks 10 and 5.