President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has tonight sent a message to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressing his condolences following the passing of India's former President, Pranab Mukherjee.

The President's message to the Prime Minister reads as follows:

 

Excellency,

I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee, the 13th President of India, earlier this afternoon. India and all of South Asia mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant, whose lasting legacy will be cherished throughout the region for generations to come.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Maldives, I extend my sympathies to the Government and people of India, and in particular to President Mukherjee’s family and loved ones, for their profound loss.