Modi to attend Lee Kuan Yew's funeral on March 29

This year marks 50th anniversary of India and Singapore diplomatic ties

PrimePrime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the funeral ceremony of Singapore’s first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew on Sunday. Lee, 91, in hospital with severe pneumonia since February, died on Monday.  The funeral service will take place at the National University of Singapore’s cultural centre campus.  Condoling Lee’s demise on Monday, Modi had referred to him as a “far-sighted statesman and a lion among leaders”. “Lee Kuan Yew’s life teaches valuable lessons to everyone. The news of his demise is saddening. In this hour of bereavement, our prayers are with Lee Kuan Yew’s family and the people of Singapore. May his soul rest in peace,” Modi said. Modi is expected to formally visit Singapore later this year. This year marks the 50th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic ties. Leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) are also expected to attend Lee’s funeral.

In his condolence letter to Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam, President Pranab Mukherjee said: “Lee Kuan Yew, one of the greatest statesmen of our times, was a genuine friend of India. He will long be remembered for laying the strong foundation of the excellent co-operation between India and Singapore and also India’s close engagement with the Asean and countries in the region.”

Lee was regarded as a visionary statesman, who is credited to nurture and develop Singapore into a global financial hub.