Condolences pour in from world leaders on Kalam's death

Condolences poured in from many world leaders on the death of former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

Russian President Vladimir Putin in a message condoled the passing away of Kalam who he said will be remembered as a consistent exponent of close friendly India-Russia ties.

"In Russia, Abdul Kalam will be remembered as a consistent exponent of closer friendly relations between our nations who has done a lot for cementing mutually beneficial Russian-Indian cooperation," he said in a message.

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay tweeted: "His Majesty the King offered prayers and lit butter lamps with the Indian community in remembrance of Dr. Abdul Kalam."

Malaysian Prime Minister Mohd. Najib Tun Razak tweeted: "Condolences to the friends and family of India's former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. His passing is a loss to the scientific community."

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani tweeted: "Saddened by the death of Dr. Kalam. He was an inspirational figure to millions of people including me. We have a lot to learn from his life."

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in a signed tweet said: "Saddened to learn of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's passing. My condolences to his family and the people of India. - LHL."

In a signed Facebook post, Loong wrote a longer condolence message: "Saddened to learn of the passing of India's former President Dr Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam.

"Dr Kalam had humble beginnings, but rose to become a top scientist at India's defence research organisation. He then served as the country's 11th President from 2002 to 2007, and was widely regarded as the People's President.

"I was honoured to meet Dr Kalam when he visited Singapore in 2006. Our thoughts are with his family and the people of India during this time of sorrow. - LHL," he posted.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Maithripala Sirisena tweeted: "Dr. Abdul Kalam - the man who ushered India on a new journey has just finished his own. You will continue to inspire us for centuries."

--Indo-Asian News service

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