Sugiono honors late Father Emir's legacy of RI-Qatar relations

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono paid tribute to Qatar's late Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, on Wednesday, praising his role in strengthening bilateral ties and transforming Qatar into a prominent global player.

Sugiono conveyed his condolences during a visit to the Qatari Embassy, according to a statement issued by the Government Communications Agency (Bakom).

He said the late Father Emir laid a strong foundation for Indonesia-Qatar relations that would support closer cooperation under President Prabowo Subianto and Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Sugiono also credited Sheikh Hamad with driving Qatar's modernization and national transformation during his reign from 1995 to 2013.

He said the late leader helped elevate Qatar's international standing through strategic policies.

"He was also the leader who made Qatar a highly influential country," Sugiono said.

The minister extended condolences to the Qatari government and people following the former ruler's passing.

"We pray that he is granted the best place with God Almighty and that Qatar is blessed with strength and inspired by his leadership," he said.

Sugiono said Indonesia regards Qatar as a strategic partner in advancing shared regional and international interests.

He expressed hope that bilateral cooperation would continue to deepen in the coming years.

Sheikh Hamad met then-Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Doha in 2006 and in Jakarta in 2009, helping strengthen relations between the two countries.

After abdicating in 2013, Sheikh Hamad transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who hosted President Prabowo Subianto in Doha in April and September 2025.

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Translator: A. Ramadhan, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: Rahmad Nasution

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