New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he was "shocked and saddened beyond words" over the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who he described as "one of my dearest friends... a towering global statesman, an outstanding leader and a remarkable administrator".
"During my recent visit to Japan, I had the opportunity to meet Abe again and discuss many issues. He was witty and insightful as always. Little did I know that this would be our last meeting. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Japanese people.
"Abe made an immense contribution to elevating India-Japan relations to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Today, whole India mourns with Japan and we stand in solidarity with our Japanese brothers and sisters in this difficult moment.