Mukherjee condoles passing away of Singapore’s former President

New Delhi: President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday condoled the passing away of former President of Singapore, S.R. Nathan.

“It is with great sadness that I received the news of the passing away of former President of Singapore, S.R. Nathan,” Mukherjee said in a message to his Singaporean counterpart Tony Tan Keng Yam.

Mukherjee said that the life and achievements of Nathan were exceptional.

“He served Singapore with distinction. He will always be remembered for his sagacity and wisdom in leading Singapore – and his contribution to its emergence as a vibrant economy and progressive society,” he said.

The President also recalled his pleasant and fruitful interaction with Nathan when he visited Singapore as External Affairs Minister in 2007.

“On behalf of the people of India and on my own behalf, I offer deep condolences to the people of Singapore and to President Nathan’s family,” Mukherjee said.

Nathan, who died on Monday at the age of 92, had suffered a stroke three weeks ago.

The stroke was his second in recent years, with the latest having placed him in critical condition.

IANS