Maldives Lowers National Flag to Honor Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad

The Maldives has declared a day of official mourning, lowering the national flag to half-mast following the death of former Qatari Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. According to the President's Office, the decision was made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to honor the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and Qatar. The gesture recognizes the close personal relationship Sheikh Hamad maintained with the archipelago during his reign, as well as his significant contributions toward the Maldives' national development and progress. The directive specifies that the national flag will remain at half-mast from 12:00 p.m. on Monday until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was laid to rest with full state honors on July 12. The former Emir's legacy is marked by a period of stability and modernization in Qatar, as well as a diplomatic strategy that extended support to various developing nations, including the Maldives. In a further show of solidarity and respect, President Dr. Muizzu traveled to Qatar on Monday to personally attend the official mourning ceremonies. The presidential visit underscores the strategic importance of the bilateral ties between Male' and Doha, highlighting a partnership built on mutual support and diplomatic cooperation.