Quotes from Sheikh Tamim, drawn from his speeches and public addresses over the years. Each quote reflects his perspectives on governance, social responsibility, international affairs, and national development.
- “If we made big investments and did not get the suitable results, then we should not condone that, because here harm would occur instead of benefits.”
– Emphasizing accountability and results in public spending Acta - “Plans are not drawn up for the purpose of completing a procedure as a formality only, plans are drawn up to be implemented…”
– Stressing practical execution over mere paper processes Acta - “Development can achieve its objectives only through good governance, the rule of law, combatting corruption and injustice.”
– Linking societal progress to strong institutions and justice Acta - “Mistakes are natural and our officials are known for their integrity and transparency, but I stress that financial and administrative corruption, which is more dangerous as it sags institutions, cannot be tolerated.”
– A warning against corruption from the 2016 cabinet reshuffle meeting Acta - “In this sense, we will not tolerate financial and administrative corruption, abuse of public positions for ulterior motives, or abandoning professional standards for the sake of personal interest.”
– Reaffirming zero tolerance for misuse of power Acta - “No one shall regard himself as having the right to be appointed in an office or public position without carrying out his duties towards the society and the state.”
– Asserting that public office conveys responsibility, not entitlement Acta - “A public sector employee should not be inactive in discharging work requirements. A job is a right, but discharging the tasks of this job is a duty…”
– Highlighting both rights and responsibilities in public service Acta
- “We are open to dialogue to resolve the outstanding problems [so long as Qatar’s] sovereignty is respected.”
– During the 2017 Gulf diplomatic crisis, emphasizing sovereignty as non-negotiable Al Jazeera - “People are amazed to see Qatari people maintaining a high level of morale despite the unprecedented smearing campaign… It was a true ethical trial. Our people have passed the test with colours…”
– Commending national resilience in times of adversity Al Jazeera
- “The crisis of development in all its dimensions has posed a threat to the national and regional security in our region… it contributes to the spread of the feelings of despair and radicalism…”
– Urging regional unity and addressing root causes of instability US-Qatar Business Council - “…the need to renounce fanaticism, sectarianism, and regionalism of all kinds, and valuing the diversity enriching our societies to maintain citizenship as the basis of affiliation to our nations.”
– Championing inclusive citizenship over divisive identities US-Qatar Business Council
- “The balance has been tipped in favor of the visions skeptical of the importance of the joint responsibility and international law… gave way to invoking the law of force…”
– Warning against erosion of global accountability Havana Embassy - “It is not yet clear whether what has happened since that stage is a transition from unipolarism to multipolarism, or … fragmentation…”
– Reflecting on shifting international order Havana Embassy - “These problems cannot be solved without coordinated international efforts and shared visions…”
– Promoting collective solutions to global challenges Havana Embassy - “As economic development cannot be achieved in the long run without human development, it is essential to achieve security in all its economic, political, environmental and societal dimensions.”
– Advocating a holistic view of security and development Havana Embassy - “These universal values… should not change when circumstances and times change.”
– Upholding timeless principles of justice and coexistence Havana Embassy
- “The failure to deter the Syrian regime from committing crimes… would render the provisions of international law… devoid of any meaning.”
– A forceful defense of legal norms at the UN General Assembly Havana Embassy - “We reaffirm our keenness to support the brotherly Iraq in the process of reconstruction and development…”
– Expressing solidarity and aid for post-conflict rebuilding Havana Embassy - “There is consensus that terrorism has become one of the most outstanding challenges facing the world…”
– Solidifying Qatar’s stance in the global fight against terrorism Havana Embassy
- “The phenomenon of climate change is undoubtedly one of the serious challenges of our time… causes problems… in economic, environmental and social dimensions.”
– Acknowledging multifaceted risks of climate change Havana Embassy - “All states must fulfill their responsibilities and honor their commitments which international agreements have established to this effect.”
– Calling for collective climate responsibility Havana Embassy - “…we are committed to organizing an environment-friendly tournament and the first ‘carbon neutral’ tournament…”
– Vows for the 2022 World Cup to be eco-conscious Havana Embassy
- During Ramadan 2020: “This month evokes the highest values of our true faith… giving without bragging, humility, ethical behaviors…”
– A message of moral values and personal responsibility in crisis Singapore Embassy - “Since the first day we have adhered to transparency, which is our authentic approach…”
– Emphasizing openness in pandemic response Singapore Embassy
- “The contest assumes an identity-based character that we are not equipped to handle…”
– Reflecting on the Shura Council electoral experience and social cohesion AP News - “We are all one family in Qatar.”
– Reinforcing unity amidst societal divisions AP News - “What is happening is genocide, in addition to turning the Gaza Strip into an area unfit for human habitation…”
– Speaking at Asia Cooperation Dialogue, condemning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza Reuters - “Qatar backs all India actions to bring attackers to justice.”
– Solidarity in counter-terrorism with international partners The Times of India - Described diplomatic efforts as a “race against time” to win hostage releases in Gaza.
– Urgency in humanitarian diplomacy during conflicts AP News - “Any solution to the crisis must respect his country’s sovereignty.”
– Underscoring the inviolability of Qatar’s sovereignty in all negotiations (reiterated context from 8 above) Al Jazeera
Sheikh Tamim’s quotes paint a picture of a leader deeply rooted in principles, transparency, integrity, social cohesion, environmental foresight, and proactive diplomacy. From internal governance to global crises, his words consistently advocate for accountability, unity, and thoughtful leadership.
