MFA Press Statement: Valedictory messages from President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani the Father Emir of the State of Qatar

His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, formerly the Emir of the State of Qatar, abdicated on 25 June 2013.  President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have written to him to convey their best wishes on the occasion of his abdication.

The texts of the valedictory messages are attached.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
28 JUNE 2013

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Valedictory Message from President Tony Tan Keng Yam

28 June 2013

His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani
The Father Emir
State of Qatar

Your Highness,

                   It is my honour to convey my very best wishes to Your Highness on the occasion of your abdication.

                   Under your visionary leadership, Qatar has achieved remarkable economic growth and played an active role in regional issues.  I am confident that His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani will continue to implement the Qatar National Vision 2030 assiduously and put the country on a steady path towards sustainable development.

                    Qatar-Singapore relations have strengthened significantly during Your Highness’ reign.  Your Highness’ State Visit to Singapore in May 2009 marked a milestone in the relationship.  I am confident that the excellent ties between our two countries will continue to expand in the years ahead.

                    Please accept, Your Highness, the assurances of my highest consideration.

TONY TAN KENG YAM

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Valedictory Message from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

27 June 2013

Your Highness,

                   On behalf of the Government and people of Singapore, I wish to convey my very best wishes to Your Highness on the occasion of your abdication.

                   Over the past 18 years, Your Highness has worked tirelessly to improve your peoples’ lives, transform the Qatar economy, and promote closer ties with your neighbours and region. The foundations which you laid will enable Qatar to continue prospering and benefit future generations.

                    Bilateral relations between Qatar and Singapore have improved steadily under your leadership. The Qatar-Singapore High Level Joint Committee reflects our growing and wide-ranging cooperation.  I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen in the years ahead. 

                   I wish Your Highness the best of health and every success always.

Yours sincerely

LEE HSIEN LOONG

His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani
The Father Emir
State of Qatar