Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met Singapore leaders and conveyed his condolences while underlining the importance of taking forward the initiatives in India inspired by late Lee Kuan Yew.
Modi, who arrived here this morning to attend the State Funeral Services of Lee who died at the age of 91, met Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam today.
Apart from conveying condolences, they discussed the prospects that in tune with the vision of late Lee India and Singapore can work together further. Prime Minster Modi said two of his own projects, namely the public housing and Swatch Bharat projects, were inspired by Lee Kuan Yew’s own efforts in Singapore. - External Affairs Ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin told reporters.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks at Lee Kuan Yew’s funeral service in Singapore:
Friends,
I am visiting Singapore at a sad moment.
The passing away of H.E. Mr. Lee Kuan Yew marks the end of an era.
He was among the tallest leaders of our times.
Singapore’s transformation in one generation is a tribute to his leadership.
In the 50th anniversary year of Singapore’s independence, I am sure that he left satisfied with Singapore’s achievements and confident about its future.
He inspired not just Southeast Asia, but all of Asia, to believe in its own destiny.
He was a global thinker, who saw things ahead of others. He was an advocate of economic progress, but also made tireless efforts to advance peace and stability in our region.
In India, we deeply valued his friendship and his support for India’s economic progress and global role.
He believed in India’s potential more than many of us did.
India’s economy is growing rapidly.
India’s relations with Singapore is one of our strongest relationships in the world.
India’s integration with Southeast Asia and beyond is growing. Singapore is a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy.
So, his vision is coming true. The seeds he sowed are bearing fruits today.
Personally, he was a source of inspiration for me. His achievements and thoughts give me confidence in the possibility of India’s own transformation.
The people of India share this nation’s grief over the loss of its founding father and leader.
We are observing a day of public mourning in India today in honour of the departed leader and the deep bonds of friendship that we share with Singapore.
I bring here today the condolences and prayers of the people of India.
(With PTI inputs)
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