NEW YORK: Atal Bihari Vajpayee recognised early on that the US-India partnership would contribute to the world’s economic prosperity and security and the two democracies continue to benefit from his vision, US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has said while condoling the death of the former Prime Minister.
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of India on the recent passing of Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee,” Pompeo said in a statement yesterday.
He said Indians will reflect on Vajpayee’s many contributions that led to India’s rise as a global and economic power.
“He championed tirelessly for his country’s development and demonstrated a devotion to improving the lives of every Indian,” Pompeo said.
Vajpayee, one of India’s most charismatic leaders and inspirational orators, died yesterday at the age of 93. His death was announced by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) hospital where he was admitted on June 11 with a variety of ailments.
AIIMS said his condition was stable for the last nine weeks, but it deteriorated over the last 36 hours and he was put on life support systems. (Agencies)
