The programme opened with community leader and organising committee member Riyaz Ahmad Bakali inviting the gathering to observe a minute's silence in memory of the late Father Amir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Guests then stood in tribute to the visionary leader, acknowledging his lasting contributions to Qatar, the Muslim world and humanity.
Addressing the gathering, HE Dr. Mustafa Göksu, Ambassador of Türkiye, paid an emotional tribute to the late Father Amir, describing his passing as "not only a loss for the Muslim Ummah, but a loss for all humanity." He said the Father Amir's humanitarian vision transcended national boundaries and left an enduring legacy of service to humanity. The outgoing Turkish envoy also praised the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, saying Qatar continues to set an example for the Muslim world through its humanitarian initiatives and regional engagement. Reflecting on his six-year tenure, Dr. Göksu described Türkiye-Qatar relations as a bond that goes beyond strategic partnership, calling it a genuine brotherhood strengthened by close institutional cooperation and strong people-to-people ties.
HE Arman Issagaliyev, Ambassador of Kazakhstan, thanked the organisers for the warm farewell and reflected on his six years in Qatar, recalling his arrival during the pandemic and regional blockade and witnessing the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Describing the assignment as one of the most fulfilling chapters of his diplomatic career, he expressed hope for peace and stability in the region, praised Pakistan's constructive diplomatic efforts and commended Qatar's continued support for Arab and Muslim nations. He also thanked veteran journalist and co-host Ashraf Siddiqui for highlighting diplomatic activities through the English daily Qatar Tribune.
HE Muhammad Aamer, Ambassador of Pakistan, paid tribute to both outgoing envoys, describing Dr. Göksu as a mentor whose guidance enriched his diplomatic journey after transitioning from a distinguished military career. He also praised Ambassador Issagaliyev's professionalism and humility, while lauding the organisers for promoting Pakistan's authentic culinary heritage and bringing together representatives from diverse communities, reflecting the harmony and mutual understanding that characterise life in Qatar. He wished both ambassadors, their families and their countries continued peace, prosperity and success in their future assignments.
Earlier, following the tribute to late father Amir, welcoming the guests, Ashraf Siddiqui thanked excellencies the ambassadors, distinguished guests and
community leaders for joining the farewell event. He said the gathering reflected the friendship, mutual respect and solidarity that define Qatar's multicultural diplomatic community.
Siddiqui praised both the outgoing ambassadors for their dedicated service and their contributions to strengthening political, economic, cultural and people-to-people ties with Qatar.
He highlighted Pakistan's longstanding brotherly relationship with Türkiye, built on shared history, trust and unwavering support, and noted the expanding partnership between Pakistan and Kazakhstan in trade, connectivity, education, energy and regional cooperation. He also welcomed the growing strategic relationship between Türkiye and Kazakhstan as a positive force for regional stability. He wished both envoys success in their future endeavors and commended their professionalism, integrity, and friendship, which had earned them widespread respect within the diplomatic fraternity and the Pakistani community.
American Chamber of Commerce Qatar
Bangladeshi Community
Filipino Community
Indian Community
Nepali Community
Pakistani Community
Sri Lankan Community
