New Delhi, Sept 11: India today expressed shock and grief over the death of Swedish Foreign Minister Anna Lindh in Stockholm, saying she was passionately committed to promoting democracy and development the world over. "It was with profound shock and sorrow that I have received the news of the tragic and untimely death of Anna Lindh, Minister of Foreign Affairs," External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha said in a condolence message.

Relations between India and Sweden had been strengthened and enriched during her tenure as foreign minister, he said adding that "as a brilliant and dynamic leader she showed a passionate commitment to promoting democracy and development throughout the world". Lindh, who was stabbed repeatedly while shopping in an exclusive department store in Stockholm yesterday, died this morning.

Sinha said Lindh championed the cause of closer European integration and had made significant contribution towards that end. It was widely acclaimed not just in Sweden and Europe but throughout the world.

Bureau Report