World Leaders React to Qatar Power Transfer

It has been a day laden with congratulatory remarks made by world leaders to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and to his father Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, in response to the peaceful power transition that occurred early Tuesday, June 25.

Sheikh Hamad abdicated power in favor of his son, 33-year-old Sheikh Tamim.

President Barack Obama released this statement:

“I extend my best wishes to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani as he assumes his new role as the Amir of Qatar. Qatar is an important partner of the United States, and we look forward to further strengthening our cooperation in the years ahead. I also extend my appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani for his friendship and leadership…”

In the mean time, British Foreign Secretary William Hague tweeted:

"Historic day for Qatar as the new generation takes over."

Hague also expressed gratitude to Sheikh Hamad for the “friendship and support” offered to the United Kingdom during his reign.

Both the U.S. and the UK asserted that they would be looking forward to working with the new emir in hope of strengthening their ties with Qatar.

As for the GCC countries leaders, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia voiced his response in a statement published by the Saudi Press Agency.

“We are happy to express to you in the name of the people and Saudi Arabia’s government and in our name, our sincerest congratulations…

“We are confident that you will continue the journey of your father and his efforts in serving the state of Qatar and its brotherly people as well as strengthening relations between the two nations.”

Kuwaiti ruler Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jabir Al Sabah, who visited Qatar today, also congratulated the two Sheikhs.

In addition, UAE President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent a congratulatory cable, “stressing the depth of brotherly relations between the two countries,” national UAE news agency WAM reported.

Image below from AFP