Prez Mukherjee sends wishes to ailing former Singapore PM

President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday sent his best wishes to ailing former Singapore prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, who has been hospitalised for over one month.

In his message to the incumbent Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, President Mukherjee wished for the speedy recovery of Lee Kuan Yew.

"I write to express my deep concern over the health of Lee Kuan Yew, former Prime Minister of Singapore. I would request you to please convey to him my best wishes for his full and speedy recovery. I have had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions and have fond recollections of my association and work with him while serving Government of India in various capacities," President Mukherjee's message said.

"Lee Kuan Yew has not only shaped modern Singapore but stands tall among world leaders for his contribution for peace and progress in the world. He has been a beacon to developing countries and his successful policies have set the standards that many have chosen to follow. I am confident that he is getting the best medical attention and do hope that he will soon be on the path of recovery and good health," he added.

The Singapore Prime Minister's Office, in a statement, confirmed that Lee Kuan Yew remains 'critically ill' and his health has deteriorated further, after he was hospitalised on February 5 for severe pneumonia.