Qatar's former ruler who forged ties with Cyprus dies, nation enters four days of mourning

The State of Qatar is mourning the death of its former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, a leader widely credited with transforming the Gulf nation and strengthening its ties with countries around the world, including Cyprus.

The Embassy of Qatar in Nicosia announced the news on Monday, describing Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose legacy helped shape modern Qatar.

For Cyprus, his passing marks the loss of a statesman who played an important role in the relationship between the two countries.

Diplomatic relations between Qatar and Cyprus were established during Sheikh Hamad's time as Amir, opening the door to closer political and economic cooperation. The relationship reached a historic milestone in 2010 when he became the first Qatari Amir to make an official visit to Cyprus. That visit came a year after the then-president of Cyprus, Dimitris Christofias, traveled to Qatar, helping launch a new chapter in relations between the two nations.

Since then, Cyprus and Qatar have expanded their cooperation in several areas, including investment, energy, tourism, and regional affairs, with the two countries maintaining regular diplomatic contact over the years.

Qatar has declared four days of official mourning in honor of its former leader, with flags across the country flying at half-mast.

In Cyprus, members of the public and the diplomatic community wishing to pay their respects will be able to sign a Book of Condolences at the Qatari Embassy in Strovolos from Monday through Wednesday, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Sheikh Hamad served as Amir from 1995 until 2013, when he stepped down and transferred power to his son in a rare voluntary handover of leadership in the region. During his years in office, Qatar experienced rapid economic growth, expanded its international influence, and emerged as an important player in global diplomacy.

His efforts also left a lasting mark on Cyprus, where the foundations of today's relationship between the two countries were first established under his leadership.