PM Modi, President condole death of King Abdullah

New Delhi, Jan 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday condoled the demise of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.

"In King Abdullah, we have lost an important voice, who left a lasting impact on his country. I condole his demise," Modi said in a statement.

"Our thoughts are with the people of Saudi Arabia, who have lost a guiding force in King Abdullah, during this hour of grief. A few days ago I spoke to Crown Prince Salman and enquired about King Abdullah's health. News of King Abdullah's passing away is saddening," he added.

President Pranab Mukherjee condoled the demise of Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, saying in his death India has lost a "close friend" who had "genuine warmth and affection for India and our people".

"My heartfelt condolences to the government, royal family and people of Saudi Arabia over the sad demise of King Abdullah," Mukherjee said in a condolence message.

"In his passing away, Saudi Arabia had lost a beloved leader, India a close friend and the world, an elder statesman. King Abdullah had genuine warmth and affection for India and our people. He was personally committed to improving bilateral ties with India," a statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

King Abdullah, who was the chief guest at India's Republic Day in 2006, died on early Friday.

IANS

IANS