Putin, Hasina & Oli fondly remember a friend and guardian

NEW DELHI: Many world leaders on Monday condoled the death of former president Pranab Mukherjee. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent condolences to President Ram Nath Kovind and PM Narendra Modi, according to the Russian embassy here.
Condoling Pranab Mukherjee’s demise, the Russian President in his message said: “During the years of his work as President and other responsible state positions, Mukherjee has earned the well-deserved respect of his compatriots and high international reputation. As a true friend of Russia, he made a significant personal contribution to strengthening the ties of a particularly privileged strategic partnership between our countries.”
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina expressed sorrow over the demise of Mukherje. She reminisced about the close association she and her family shared with the former Indian President. In her condolence statement on Monday, Hasina described the former president as a “guardian”. Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli extended condolences to the government and the bereaved family members. “In his demise, Nepal has lost a great friend,” Oli stated.
“He was a statesman par excellence, a writer & a man loved by all. The passion with which he served his nation is unparalleled,” tweeted Sri Lanka PM Mahinda Rajapaksa.