"Mr. Vajpayee was a central figure in Indian politics for decades". Israel PM extends condolences towards former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, on Wednesday, wrote to PM Modi, extending his condolences towards the demise of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. 

In the letter, Netanyahu stated that the late former PM was a 'central figure' in Indian politics for decades and that he fought for independence and served the country in many positions.

READ | 'Atal Ji Was For The People Of India', Prime Minister Narendra Modi Addresses Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Prayer Meeting

The letter read: 

Dear Mr. Prime Minister, Narendra my friend,

On behalf of the people of Israel, I send our sincere condolences on the passing of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Mr. Vajpayee was a central figure in Indian politics for decades. He fought for India's independence and served the country in many positions. It was as foreign minister and prime minister that he was able to strengthen India's security and its position in the world by forging important ties with other countries. His reforms to India's economy improved the lives of millions.

As prime minister, Mr. Vajpayee helped advance relations between Israel and India, overseeing the crucial first stage in expanding our ties, a process which has grown exponentially under your tenure.

As you so fittingly put it, Mr. Vajpayee's passing symbolizes the end of an era. Please convey my sympathies to Ms. Bhattachariya and her family.

In friendship,
Benjamin Netanyahu

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, one of the tallest leaders of India, passed away on August 16 at the age of 93. He was under observation under a team of doctors for nine weeks. On August 16, at 5:05 pm a medical bulletin released by the premier medical institute informed about the BJP leader's demise. 

READ | Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji Was Like A Messiah For The People Of Jammu-Kashmir: Mehbooba Mufti

On August 17, mortal remains of the former Prime Minister was taken from the BJP headquarters to Smriti Sthal where he was to be laid to rest. Major political leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, and BJP President Amit Shah followed the procession on foot. 

He was laid to rest at Smriti Sthal with full state honours. Various leaders from around the world paid their homage during the final rites including Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai.