PM condoles Lankan diplomat's death

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today condoled the demise of Sri Lankan diplomat Gamini Corea, saying his work in the field of economic development were of immense significance not only for the island nation but also for developing countries.
Singh also recalled his over three decades of friendship with Corea and said it was a privilege that the late diplomat was a member of the South Commission during the time he served as its Secretary General.
Corea passed away in Colombo yesterday at the age of 88.
Describing Corea as an outstanding international civil servant, a diplomat and a brilliant economist, the prime minister said he was "particularly proud to be able to call him a friend for over three decades, a friendship of which I cherish the warmest memories".

He said Corea lent his influential voice in support of some of the most important international initiatives aimed at the welfare of developing countries, such as the Integrated Program for Commodities and the Highly Indebted Poor country initiative.
In his condolence message, the PM said Corea's passing away is a great loss not only to Sri Lanka, but also to Asia and the world.