World leaders offer condolences at passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott was among some of the world leaders to send their condolences to Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Singapore after the announcement of Mr Lee Kuan Yew's passing.

In a statement, he said that Australia mourned the passing of 'a giant in our region'.

Mr Abbott said that thanks to Mr Lee's vision and determination, Singapore is one of the world's most successful countries. Under his leadership, Singapore is now one of the world's most prosperous nations, a financial powerhouse, and one of the world's easiest places to do business, adding that "our region owes much to Lee Kuan Yew."

US President Barack Obama also offered his condolences, calling Singapore's first prime minister "a true giant of history."

Obama said in a White House statement that he appreciated Lee's wisdom, including during discussions they held on the president's trip to Singapore in 2009 when Obama was formulating his Asia-Pacific policy.

"He was a true giant of history who will be remembered for generations to come as the father of modern Singapore and as one the great strategists of Asian affairs," Obama said of Lee, who died at age 91.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to pay their tribute to  the late Mr Lee. 

Calling Mr Lee "a far-sighted statesman" and "a lion among leaders", Mr Modi said his life teaches valuable lessons to everyone.

In this hour of bereavement, our prayers are with Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's family and the people of Singapore. May his soul rest in peace.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 23, 2015

A far-sighted statesman &a lion among leaders, Mr Lee Kuan Yew's life teaches valuable lessons to everyone. News of his demise is saddening

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 23, 2015

cynloh@sph.com.sg