Bangladesh on Monday paid tribute to former Amir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, with Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir signing the condolence book at the Qatari Embassy and announcing a half-day state mourning on July 16.

As the senior-most minister in the government, Mirza Fakhrul signed the condolence book on behalf of the government at the Embassy of Qatar in Gulshan following the death of the former Qatari Amir, said a foreign ministry’s press release.

Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir was present during the signing.

In his condolence message, the minister expressed profound grief and sorrow over the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh, as well as in his personal capacity, he conveyed heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to the Government of Qatar, the Qatari Royal Family and the brotherly people of Qatar.

He said Bangladesh highly values its long-standing, close, cordial and fraternal relations with Qatar.

The minister also announced that the Bangladesh government will observe half-day state mourning on Thursday in honour of the late former Amir.

He said a Bangladeshi delegation, led by the Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, will visit Doha to convey Bangladesh's solidarity and condolences to His Highness the Amir of Qatar, the Royal Family and the brotherly people of Qatar.