New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday condoled the death of Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, saying he made a tremendous contribution to the development of closer relations among the developing world.
"I am deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of His Excellency President Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias. The people of India join me in conveying our heartfelt condolence to his family and to the government and people of Venezuela," Singh said in his message.
"Venezuela has lost a charismatic and immensely popular leader in President Chavez who leaves a legacy of striving for social justice," he said.
The prime minister said India stands in solidarity with Venezuela in its hour of grief.
"We are grateful for his personal efforts in strengthening relations between India and Venezuela and will continue to work towards even closer relations with the friendly people of Venezuela," the prime minister said.
Hugo Chavez, 58, died of cancer in a military hospital in Caracas Tuesday.
IANS
First Published: Wednesday, March 06, 2013, 14:04