Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced one-day national mourning to be observed on July 9 to mark deepest respect for former Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe, who succumbed to the injuries a while ago.
Taking to Twitter, PM Modi said that he is shocked and saddened beyond words at the tragic demise of his dearest friend Shinzo Abe.
“I am shocked and saddened beyond words at the tragic demise of one of my dearest friends, Shinzo Abe. He was a towering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator. He dedicated his life to make Japan and the world a better place,” PM Modi tweeted.
PM Modi continued, “My association with Mr. Abe goes back many years. I had got to know him during my tenure as Gujarat CM and our friendship continued after I became PM. His sharp insights on economy and global affairs always made a deep impression on me.”
The Prime Minister said, “During my recent visit to Japan, I had the opportunity to meet Mr. 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.”
“Mr. 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,” he said.
PM Modi made the announcement, “As a mark of our deepest respect for former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, a one day national mourning shall be observed on 9 July 2022.”
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been confirmed dead after he was shot at during a campaign speech in Nara City, western Japan. He was 67.
Abe was addressing an election meeting ahead of Sunday’s polling for the Upper House of the Parliament.
Witnesses reported hearing gunshots at the site following which Abe collapsed. Police said that a male suspect, believed to be in his late 30s, was arrested at the scene.