Former President of Finland Tarja Halonen
Doha, Qatar: Former President of Finland Tarja Halonen has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, extending her heartfelt condolences to Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar.
In a message of condolence, Halonen paid tribute to the late Father Amir as a visionary statesman whose leadership transformed Qatar into a modern nation while advancing regional peace, international cooperation and sustainable development.
She recalled with appreciation the constructive discussions she shared with Sheikh Hamad on a wide range of issues, including regional stability, education, development and global partnerships, describing him as a leader committed to dialogue and mutual understanding.
Halonen noted that bilateral relations between Finland and Qatar flourished during Sheikh Hamad’s leadership, highlighting his state visit to Finland in June 2002 as a significant milestone that strengthened ties between the two countries.
She also reflected on her official visit to Qatar in April 2007, during which she witnessed firsthand the Father Amir’s openness and determination to deepen cooperation across various fields.
According to Halonen, Sheikh Hamad’s legacy extends well beyond Qatar’s remarkable economic and social transformation, encompassing his efforts to promote dialogue, mutual respect and international collaboration.
She said his unwavering belief in engagement and partnership remains particularly relevant at a time when global cooperation is increasingly vital to addressing shared challenges.
The former Finnish president further emphasised that the Father Amir would be remembered not only as the architect of modern Qatar but also as a respected international leader who championed diplomacy and constructive engagement.
