Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks at the Tribute to the Memory of His Highness, the Late Father Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, in New York today:
We gather today to honour the life and legacy of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the late Father Amir of the State of Qatar.
On behalf of the United Nations, I extend my deepest condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to the Al-Thani ruling family, and to the Government and people of the State of Qatar.
His Highness Sheikh Hamad was a visionary leader who helped transform Qatar and shape its modern history. His years as Amir were a period of remarkable economic, social, and institutional transformation.
His leadership laid the foundations for the country’s long-term prosperity and global standing — enabling Qatar to emerge as a global actor in diplomacy, mediation, education, energy and media. He championed modernization and reform. He helped prepare Qatar for the future while strengthening its national institutions.
During his tenure, Qatar saw its share of the global economy grow many times over; adopted its permanent constitution; invested in higher education and research through the Qatar Foundation and Education City; and launched the Qatar National Vision 2030, a landmark framework that continues to guide the country’s sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
But Sheikh Hamad’s impact reached far beyond Qatar’s borders. He understood that a country’s influence is measured not only by its economic achievements, but also by its contributions to peace and dialogue.
Under his leadership, Qatar became a trusted partner in mediation and diplomacy, creating opportunities for dialogue and compromise; expanded its humanitarian footprint across the region and beyond; and cemented its role as a constructive partner in regional and international affairs.
Sheikh Hamad dedicated his life to advancing his nation’s development, strengthening its institutions and elevating its place among nations.
The United Nations has long valued its partnership with Qatar. We are grateful for its support for humanitarian efforts, mediation initiatives, and multilateral action in the service of peace and human dignity. That partnership remains an important part of Sheikh Hamad’s enduring legacy.
Today, we remember a leader who shaped his country’s history and whose contributions to dialogue and development were felt around the world. May his memory continue to inspire current and future generations.