Qatar's former leader Hamad bin Khalifa dies at 74

Video Highlights • Source: beIN SPORTS

Qatar's government announced the death of and paid tribute to former leader Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led the country from 1995 to 2013. He was 74, according to a government website.

Sheikh Hamad is remembered as one of the architects of modern Qatar and led the country during a period of rapid economic growth.

Thousands of mourners gathered at Doha's Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahab Mosque for evening funeral prayers before the former leader's burial at Lusail Cemetery, north of the Qatari capital, Doha.

In a statement, the Amir's office said it "mourns the great loss to the nation of the late -- may God have mercy on him -- His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani".

Officials announced several days of public mourning across the country, with government offices and public institutions closed and flags flown at half-mast.

Condolences poured in from across the world following the news of his death, including from the leaders of Gulf states, Egypt, Turkey and Italy, as well as Britain's King Charles III.

His time in office saw the launch of Al Jazeera in 1996, following a decree issued by the Amir, with the international broadcaster becoming one of the most influential media outlets in the Middle East.

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