Shinzo Abe Death News: PM Modi pens blog for ex Japanese PM, 1-day mourning in India

Twitter, Facebook parent Meta and other social media companies scrambled Friday to police videos on their platforms of the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe that break rules on harmful content.

PM Modi in the blog said, "I first met Abe San in 2007 and since then, we have had so many memorable interactions. I will cherish each of them. Abe San energised the India-Japan relationship. He ensured that Japan is there side by side as New India accelerates its growth."

Former US President Donald Trump expressed grief over Shinzo Abe's tragic death and said, "He was a unifier like no other, but above all, he was a man who loved and cherished his magnificent country, Japan. Shinzo Abe will be greatly missed."

Nepal declares one-day national mourning on July 9 over the demise of former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi upload a blog, titled 'My Friend, Abe San' after the ex-Japanese premier was assassinated on Friday. "Shinzo Abe - an outstanding leader of Japan, a towering global statesman, and a great champion of India-Japan friendship - is not among us anymore. Japan and the world have lost a great visionary. And, I have lost a dear friend," said the PM in the blog. 

Taking part in the first 'Arun Jaitley Memorial Lecture' in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke a few words in honour of assassinated former PM of Japan, Shinzo Abe. Watch the full video here:-

The Government and people of India are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of former Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Mr. Abe Shinzo, and convey their sincere condolences to his family and friends and the people of Japan.

Mr Abe was a visionary leader and statesman, who worked tirelessly for the betterment of humanity. He left an indelible impression on the hearts and minds of people across the world.

During his visit to India in August 2007 as Prime Minister, Mr Abe delivered his famous "The Confluence of Two Seas" speech in the Indian Parliament, in which he stated that the India-Japan relationship is blessed with the largest potential for development of bilateral relationship anywhere in the world. His efforts have been instrumental in bringing our nations together to realize a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

Mr Abe’s immense contributions elevated the India-Japan relationship to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. A large number of milestone projects between India and Japan were initiated during his tenure as the Prime Minister of Japan. The awarding of India’s second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan, to Mr Abe is a testament to the respect and warmth that he enjoyed in India.

Mr Abe assumed the leadership of both the Japan-India Parliamentary Friendship League (JIPFL) and Japan India Association (JIA) in 2022, a reflection of his deep commitment to bolstering the India - Japan partnership.

The loss of a great friend of India has been felt across our nation. Today, the whole of India mourns with Japan and we stand in solidarity with our Japanese brothers and sisters in this difficult moment. As a mark of our deepest respect for former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, one-day national mourning shall be observed on 9 July 2022.

French President Emmanuel Macron posted a condolence message in French, which roughly reads," We would like to express our condolences to the Government of Japan and the Japanese people in the name of the French people in the news of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Japan has lost a great prime minister who devoted his life to the country and tried to balance the world." 

In a statement, former US President Barack Obama said, "I am shocked and saddened by the assassination of my friend and longtime partner Shinzo Abe in Japan. Former Prime Minister Abe was devoted to both the country he served and the extraordinary alliance between the United States and Japan. I will always remember the work we did to strengthen our alliance, the moving experience of travelling to Hiroshima and Pearl Harbor together, and the grace he and his wife Akie Abe showed to me and Michelle. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the people of Japan who are very much in our thoughts at this painful moment."

In the aftermath of the assassination of Shinzo Abe, the Indian Embassy in Japan released a statement, in which it paid tribute to the former Japanese Prime Minister. 

Former Senior Advisor to the President of the United States and daughter of Donald Trump, Ivanka wrote on Twitter, "Saddened by the death of Former PM Shinzo Abe, a truly historic figure & leader of lasting consequence. Abe’s advice, wisdom & warmth had a profound impact on me during my government service. My heart is with his family & the Japanese people as the world mourns his passing."

On Saturday, the Tricolour will be flown at half-mast on all buildings across India with the government announcing a day of mourning as a mark of respect to assassinated former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. 

South Korea President Yoon Suk-yeol sent condolences to Akie Abe, wife of Japanese former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, following his death in a shooting attack during an election campaign. “I send my condolences to the bereaved families and Japanese people who have lost the longest-serving prime minister and respected politician in Japan’s constitutional history,” Yoon was quoted as saying in a statement delivered by the presidential office. Yoon added that the shooting was “an unforgivable act of crime.”

 Shinzo Abe,  tenure saw the bilateral ties gain new strength and depth and whose strategic vision left a deep imprint on the global stage.

A charismatic leader, who was the first Japan Prime Minister born after the Second World War, Abe left a lasting economic legacy in Japan which became famous as 'Abenomics'.  

Abe visited India during his first stint and addressed the Parliament.  His fondness for India is reflected in his visits, the most by any Japanese Prime Minister.

In 2014, he became the first Japanese PM to be chief guest at the Republic Day parade. He also visited India in December 2015 and September 2017 and accelerated the pace of bilateral ties.

Abe's famous 'Confluence of the Two Seas' speech, which he made during his first visit to India as Prime Minister, laid the foundation for his concept of Indo-Pacific.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Abe shared a personal chemistry and had an apparent convergence of views.  The  bilateral relationship was elevated to Special Strategic and Global Partnership in 2014.  It was under Abe's leadership that India and Japan finally decided to sign the civil nuclear pact in 2016.

PM Modi referred to him as dear friend. Having known Abe since he was Gujarat Chief Minister, PM Modi chose Japan for his first bilateral visit outside the neighbourhood, in September 2014 in recognition of the significance India attaches to its ties with Japan.  The relationship has grown into new areas and Japan is a key partner in India's infrastructure development.

Abe sought to revise the post-war constitution to give more power to the military and increased defence spending.  'Abenomics' relied on quantitative easing, fiscal spending and structural reforms.

Shinzo Abe positioned himself as an enthusiastic advocate of promoting equality in Japanese society and this aspect of his policy came to known as "womenomics".

China's actions on the border also brought India and Japan closer and they have embarked on joint connectivity projects including  Asia Africa Growth Corridor.

During his visit in 2007, Abe quoted Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh in the Indian Parliament highlighting the link between the Indian and the Pacific Ocean.

"Pacific & Indian Oceans are now bringing about a dynamic coupling as seas of freedom & of prosperity," he had said.
During his visit in 2015, Abe performed 'Ganga Aarti' with PM Modi in Varanasi.

PM Modi met Shinzo Abe in May during Quad Summit in Tokyo along with two other former Japanese Prime Ministers. After Abe announced in 2020 that he was resigning due to health reasons, PM Modi had recalled his contributions to the growth of bilateral ties.
"Pained to hear about your ill health, my dear friend @AbeShinzo. In recent years, with your wise leadership and personal commitment, the India-Japan partnership has become deeper and stronger than ever before," he had said.|

The Prime Minister paid glowing tributes on Shinzo Abe's passing away stating that he dedicated his life to make Japan and the world a better place.

"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 said in a tweet.  

The Prime Minister noted that 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

Japan's incumbent Prime Minister Kishida has ordered enhanced security for top politicians after the assassination of ex-premier Shinzo Abe on Friday. 

• In 1990, then-Nagasaki City Mayor Motoshima Hitoshi was seriously injured after being shot by a right-winger.
• In 1992, a right-wing gunman fired shots at the Liberal Democratic Party's then-Vice President Kanemaru Shin during a speech in Tochigi Prefecture of the country. Kanemaru was, however, uninjured.
• In 1994, former Prime Minister Hosokawa Morihiro was shot at by a former member of a right-wing group in a Tokyo hotel. Hosokawa escaped unharmed in the incident.
• In 1995, the National Police Agency's then-Commissioner General Kunimatsu Takaji was shot and seriously injured in front of his residence in Tokyo.
• In 2007, another Nagasaki mayor, Ito Itcho, was gunned down by a member of an organised crime group.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to microblogging site Twitter, and said, "Pained to learn about the assassination of the former PM of Japan and India’s valued friend, Mr Shinzo Abe. His efforts in strengthening the India-Japan relationship will always be held fondly in our memories. My deepest condolences to his family, followers & the people of Japan."

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama said, "I am deeply saddened to hear that my friend, Abe Shinzo (former Japanese PM) has passed away following a gunshot attack this morning. I pray for him and offer my condolences to you and members of your family."

"I very much appreciated his friendship and support of our efforts to preserve our rich Buddhist cultural heritage and identity," added Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, further noting, "Abe truly lived a meaningful life in the service of others," he further said. 

President Ram Nath Kovind mourned the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Taking to Twitter, he wrote, "I find it difficult to believe that Shinzo Abe is no more. He was a great statesman, & his infectious affability endeared him the world over. That he fell prey to an assassin’s bullet is a tragedy for the whole humanity. My heartfelt condolences to his family and people of Japan."

After Rahul Gandhi, his mother, and interim President of the Indian National Congress also responded to former Japanese PM Shinzo Abey's death. She said, "For many years, Abe was a great friend & well-wisher of India. He did much to expand & deepen the bilateral relationship between our two countries. I recall my meeting with him very fondly and vividly. It is a huge misfortune that has befallen Japan and indeed, the entire international community. He will be sorely missed"

UK PM Boris Johnson called former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's passing away 'incredibly sad news'. "His global leadership through unchartered times will be remembered by many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the Japanese people. The UK stands with you at this dark and sad time," he wrote on Twitter. 

The White House is "shocked and saddened to hear" about the violent attack against former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe," the White House said in a statement. "We are closely monitoring the reports and keeping our thoughts with his family and the people of Japan," the spokesperson said early Friday morning.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the death of Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe an "irreplaceable loss." In a telegram to Abe's family, Putin called Abe an 'outstanding statesman' who had done a lot to develop 'good neighbourly ties between our countries.'

Abenomics- This refers to the comprehensive policy package unveiled by Abe and his government in 2012 to revive the Japanese economy after two decades of deflation while maintaining fiscal discipline. It was aimed at achieving sustainable growth and a data-driven and human-centric society for future generations. This entailed innovation in social structures, welcoming diverse ways of working, empowering everyone equally, enabling smart regulations and creating a more business-friendly environment.

As a result, by 2020, the nominal GDP advanced by 48.4 trillion Japanese Yen and 4.4 million more women were added to the workforce. Moreover, the unemployment rate dropped by 2.4% and the tax revenue witnessed an increase of 16.2 trillion Japanese Yen. Abenomics assumes significance as the Japanese economy faces a structural challenge of an ageing society and shrinking population.

Intent to rewrite the pacifist constitution- Throughout his tenure, Abe publicly expressed a desire to amend Article 9 of Japan's Constitution. It read, "Aspiring sincerely to an international peace based on justice and order, the Japanese people forever renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as means of settling international disputes. In order to accomplish the aim of the preceding paragraph, land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained. The right of belligerency of the state will not be recognized". 

This was incorporated into the country's Constitution in the aftermath of World War II. In 2014, the Japanese government approved a reinterpretation of the article, paving way for the Japan Self-Defence Forces to get more powers. Essentially, it enabled them to defend allies in case of war being declared upon them. While the US supported this move, some countries such as China expressed their concerns. 

Nationalism- During his 8 years in office, Abe was perceived as a conservative politician seeking to bolster Japan's national identity and historical traditions. For instance, his administration deleted references from textbooks pertaining to the official involvement of the Japanese government and military in the sexual exploitation, violence and slavery of ‘comfort women’ in Korea and elsewhere. On the security front, his tenure saw critical steps such as the formation of the National Security Council in 2013, procurement of new military hardware such as F-35 fighter aircraft and a 13% increase in defence spending. 

Foreign policy- The late Japanese PM will also be remembered for his bold foreign policy initiatives that aimed at tackling China's growing influence. In 2017, Japan, India, Australia and the US agreed to revive the 'Quad' coalition to counter China’s aggressive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific region. They are committed to promoting a free and open rules-based order rooted in international law to advance security and prosperity and counter threats to the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He also adopted a more firm stance toward North Korea. 

In 2014, he became the first Japanese PM to attend India's Republic Day parade as a Chief Guest. A year later, he visited PM Modi's constituency and laid the foundation stone for Varanasi International Cooperation and Convention Centre. Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, it was inaugurated by the PM last year. Abe's special relationship with India is reflected by the fact that he was conferred with Padma Vibhushan in 2021 and the Netaji Award in 2022.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar shared a picture of himself with slain former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe on Twitter. "A sad day for Japan, for India, the world and for me personally. A quarter-century of memories of Shinzo Abe. No words to express them," he wrote on the microblogging site. 

Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Om Birla also expressed her sadness on the assassination of former Japanese Shinzo Abe. Pained by the news that former Prime Minister of Japan Mr Abe Shinzo is no more. A senior statesman & popular leader,Mr. Abe would be remembered as a pillar of the India-Japan relationship. My heartfelt condolences to his family and his admirers across the world.

Sharing a picture of assassinated former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe with PM Modi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur wrote, "Mr Shinzo Abe was a very dear friend of India. The world has lost a statesman & a popular leader. Mr Abe strengthened & took the Indo-Japan partnership to new heights. Deeply saddened by his passing away. India stands w/ the Japanese people in their hour of grief. Om Shanti."

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken reacted to x-Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's demise post an attack on him on Friday. 'My condolences are with the family', he said. 

During the press briefing on former PM Shinzo Abe's demise, Prime Minister Kishida hailed him for defending democracy in the country throughout. "He passed on the legacy to many others," he said. 

During the press briefing on former PM Shinzo Abe's demise, Prime Minister Kishida said, "Sorry, I have no words"

September 21, 1954 -- Born in Tokyo.

April 1979 -- Begins working at Kobe Steel Ltd.

November 1982 -- Begins working as a secretary for his father Shintaro Abe, then foreign minister.

July 18, 1993 -- Elected to the House of Representatives.

Sept. 21, 2003 -- Becomes the secretary-general of the Liberal Democratic Party.

October 31, 2005 -- Becomes chief Cabinet secretary under then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.

September 20, 2006 -- Becomes president of the LDP after its leadership election.

September 26, 2006 -- Appointed as Japan's 90th prime minister.

July 29, 2007 -- Presides over the LDP's crushing defeat in the House of Councillors election.

September 12, 2007 -- Announces his intention to resign as prime minister.

September 26, 2012 -- Returns to the LDP presidency after its leadership election.

December 16, 2012 -- Oversees the LDP's regaining of a majority in the lower house election.

December 26 -- Takes office as Japan's 96th prime minister.

December 26, 2013 -- Visits war-linked Yasukuni Shrine, becoming the first prime minister to do so in seven years, triggering criticism from Japan's neighbours and disappointment by the United States.

December 24, 2014 -- Appointed as Japan's 97th prime minister.

September  19, 2015 -- Japan enacts security legislation aimed at expanding the scope of the Self-Defense Forces' operations overseas.

May 27, 2016 -- U.S. President Barack Obama visits Hiroshima with Abe.

May 3, 2017 -- Abe unveils a plan to seek a first-ever change to the pacifist Constitution.

November 1, 2017 -- Appointed as Japan's 98th prime minister.

March 28, 2018 -- Abe apologizes after the Finance Ministry falsified documents related to the heavily discounted sale of state land to school operator Moritomo Gakuen, linked to his wife.

September  20 -- Secures a third consecutive term as LDP leader.

November 14 -- Abe and Russian President Vladimir Putin agree to accelerate talks to conclude a peace treaty between the two countries, hampered by a long-standing territorial dispute.

August 24, 2020 -- Becomes Japan's longest-serving prime minister in terms of consecutive days in office.

August 28, 2020 -- Announces resignation as prime minister due to a flare-up of his chronic intestinal disease.

November 11, 2021 -- Becomes head of the LDP's largest faction.

July 8, 2022 -- Attacked by a gunman in Nara Prefecture. Dies at 67.

Minutes after former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe was pronounced dead, the incumbent PM Fumio Kishida held a press briefing. You can watch the press briefing here:-

Australian PM Anthony Albanese released a statement after former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe was pronounced dead. "Shocked and saddened by the tragic death of former Japanese PM Abe Shinzo. He was a great friend and ally to Australia. My deepest sympathies to his family and the people of Japan. We mourn with you," Albanese wrote. 

Vice President of India Venkaiah Naidu took to the microblogging site, Twitter to console the demise of former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe. "Anguished by the demise of former Japanese Prime Minister, Mr Shinzo Abe. Mr Abe played a crucial role in strengthening India-Japan ties. My deepest condolences to his family members and the people of Japan," he wrote. 

The medical team that attended to Shinzo Abe said, "Wounds indicate he was shot from the front;". 

Shinzo Abe's medical team informs that they transfused around a hundred units of blood in an effort to save the former Japan PM. The munition had penetrated the heart and there were injuries to the neck and chest

Taking to Twitter on Shinzo Abe's demise, "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". He added, "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". He also announced that July 9 will be observed as a day of national mourning.

Condoling the demise of Shinzo Abe, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi remarked, "His role in strengthening the strategic relationship between India & Japan was commendable. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Indo-Pacific." 

Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe succumbed to his injuries after he was shot at in Nara while delivering a speech ahead of Sunday’s upper house election. Japan’s longest-serving Prime Minister passed away at the age of 67. Even though he left the Japanese PM’s office in 2020 citing health concerns, he never left the public eye and remained an influential personality in the country. 

French President Emmanuel Macron said, "Deeply shocked by the heinous attack that Shinzo Abe suffered. Thoughts to the family and loved ones of a great Prime Minister. France stands alongside the Japanese people."

The wife of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has arrived at Nara Medical University, where he is being treated, according to Japan's outlet NHK. 

NATO Secretary-General said, "Deeply shocked by the heinous shooting of Shinzo Abe as he was addressing voters. My thoughts are with him and his family. NATO stands with the people of our close partner Japan and PM Fumio Kishida". 

Former Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga said in a statement Friday that the shooting of Shinzo Abe "denies the basis of democracy". He said that the attack "cannot be forgiven".

As per reports, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who is attending the G20 Foreign Ministers summit in Indonesia, expressed sympathy to Japan over the attack on former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said, "Deeply shocked by the news about former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe. Join so many of his friends and admirers in India in praying for him and his family."

Responding to the incident, Gautam Bambawale, ex-Indian Ambassador to China has said, "Shocking & sad news that we've got this morning...Japan is a very peaceful country. Guns are not easily available like in the US. So, this shooting is very abnormal, it'll shock the people of Japan".

Shinzo Abe's younger brother, Nobuo Kishi who is also the defence minister, told reporters in Tokyo that the former Japanese PM is currently receiving a blood transfusion in hospital and that attempts are being made to save his life. He denounced the attack as 'unacceptable. as per reports. 

Petro Poroshenko, the 5th President of Ukraine took to Twitter and said, "Deeply shocked by the assassination attempt against 
Shinzo Abe, former prime minister and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan. Acts of such a brutality have no place in the civilized world."

"I know him as a true statesman, a thoughtful interlocutor and a sincere friend of Ukraine. Our prayers are now with his family and friends, and everyone who knows and respects Abe," he added.

As more clips emerge from the Thursday incident, it showed that the suspect Tetsuya Yamagami was waiting diagonally behind the former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe was addressing the crowd. He can be seen watching Abe from behind before shooting twice. According to NHK, Yamagami told investigators that he was dissatisfied with Shinzo Abe and targeted him with the intention to kill.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, "So deeply shocked to hear about the past PM of Japan-Shinzo Abe. He was one of the first leaders I met when I became PM. He was deeply committed to his role but also generous & kind. My thoughts are with his wife and the people of Japan. Events like this shake us all to the core."

Japan's chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said, "We strongly condemn it...Whatever the reason, such a barbaric act can never be tolerated."

Teuku Faizasyah, Indonesia’s foreign ministry spokesman on behalf of Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said, "The minister has expressed her sympathies in the name of G20 foreign ministers to the Japanese foreign minister", according to The Guardian. Additional reports stated that Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was 'very shocked' with the incident that took place in Nara. 

Chinese Communist Party's mouthpiece, Global Times cited an observer as saying, 'The attack on Abe will certainly provoke the Japanese right-wing. Abe's successor and supporters may seize the incident to push his "free and open Indo-Pacific" and active participation in the QUAD, and facilitate NATO's entry into East Asia'.

The media outlet further quoted the expert as suggesting, 'Right-wing forces in Japan may become more active and tout war again amid economic downturn, social divisions. The attack on Abe may accelerate the revision of pacifist constitution, and cause ripple effect to foreign policy, like ties with China and the US'.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who announced his resignation a day earlier, took to Twitter to condemn the attack on former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe. Johnson said, "Utterly appalled and saddened to hear about the despicable attack on Shinzo Abe. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones."

Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed the media over Shinzo Abe's shooting. He informed that the former Japanese PM's situation remains a 'very grave situation' and he is praying for his recovery. Denouncing the attack, Kishida said that Abe was 'assaulted' while delivering the speech in Nara. While Kishida returned to Tokyo from campaigning, he said that all cabinet members would be in the Japanese capital to decide on what measures shall be taken further. 

Kishida also called the attack "barbaric" and "malicious". He said that the government officials were "shocked" by the shooting that took place around 11:30 AM (local time) in Nara. Japanese PM said that the medics are "trying their best" for Abe's recovery. 

Kishida said, "Attack on Shinzo Abe is barbaric & malicious; it cannot be tolerated. We will do everything we can"

NHK reported citing police that Shinzo Abe's attacker Yamagami told investigators that he was dissatisfied with Abe and targeted him with an intention to kill. However, Japan PM Fumio Kishida said it was too early to comment on the motive of the man and focused on praying for Abe's recovery. 

Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Deeply distressed by the attack on my dear friend Abe Shinzo. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, his family, and the people of Japan." Both leaders have met with each other multiple times and PM Modi regards Abe as his "most dependable and valuable friend". 

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen took to Facebook and said, "I believe everyone is as surprised and sad as I am. Taiwan and Japan are both democratic countries with rule of law. On behalf of my government, I would like to severely condemn violent and illegal acts. Former Prime Minister Abe is not only a good friend of mine, but also a staunch friend of Taiwan’s. He has supported Taiwan for many years and spared no effort to promote the progress of Taiwan-Japan relations."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Indonesia to attend G20 Foreign Minsiters' summit, said on the sidelines of the event, "Our thoughts, our prayers are with him, with his family, with the people of Japan...This is a very, very sad moment. And we’re awaiting news from Japan", as per reports. 

Union Minister for Civil Aviation & Steel Jyotiraditya M. Scindia said, "Deeply disturbed to hear about the attack on Former PM of Japan, Mr. Shinzo Abe, who has been a true friend of India. My prayers are with his family, friends, supporters & the people of Japan".

Former United States President Donald Trump also mourned the unprecedented attack on Japan's former PM Shinzo PM. Taking to the social media platform, Gettr, Trump said, "Absolutely devastating news that former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan, a truly great man and leader, has been shot, and is in very serious condition. He was a true friend of mine and, much more importantly, America. This is a tremendous blow to the wonderful people of Japan, who loved and admired him so much. We are all praying for Shinzo and his beautiful family!"

While updates are awaited on Shinzo Abe's situation, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "Shocking news from Japan that former PM Shinzo Abe has been shot - our thoughts are with his family and the people of Japan at this time".

Japan's Fuji TV has reported that Shinzo Abe's shooting suspect, named Tetsuya Yamagami, is a former maritime Self Defense Force member who used a homemade weapon to attack the former Japanese PM. It is also known that the man, who is said to be in his 40s, did not run away even after Abe collapsed to the ground.

Expressing disbelief, United States Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel said, "We are all saddened and shocked by the shooting of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo.  Abe-san has been an outstanding leader of Japan and unwavering ally of the U.S. The U.S. Government and American people are praying for the well-being of Abe-san, his family, & people of Japan."

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will address the press from his official residence at around 2:30 PM local time (0530 GMT) in the wake of the shooting of Shinzo Abe, local media outlet Jiji reported.

Shinzo Abe was campaigning for a Liberal Democratic Party candidate before the Upper House election scheduled on Sunday when he was shot on the street in the western prefecture of Nara. Video has also emerged showing the attacker behind the former Japanese PM. 

NHK is reporting that Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to address a news briefing shortly while the Condition of Shinzo Abe is critical as he is showing no vital signs.

Responding to an unprecedented attack on Shinzo Abe, Poland's embassy in Japan said, "We are shocked to hear about the horrible attack against former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Nara. It's difficult to believe that this has happened. Our thoughts are with Mr Abe and we are praying for his health."

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is to return to Tokyo from campaigning after the attack on former PM Shinzo Abe, as per reports. Moreover, the country's spokesperson has termed the shooting 'deplorable'. 

Congress national spokesperson and Supreme Court lawyer Jaiveer Shergill called the incident shocking as he prayed for the recovery of the former Japanese PM. 

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson, Shehzad Poonwalla said, "I am distressed to hear the terrible news emanating from Japan about Former PM Shinzo Abe. Shinzo Abe has been a true friend of India & my prayers are with his family, friends, supporters and people of Japan." Adding further, Shehzad urged everyone not to speculate anything on his health condition of Abe and in fact pray for his recovery. 

More reports have stated that Shinzo Abe was shot from behind at a distance of three metres. The suspect, Yamagami was 'standing' after shooting the former Japanese PM twice before he collapsed. 

NHK has named the suspect arrested in Shinzo Abe shooting as Tetsuya Yamagami, a man who is said to be 42 years old. He is arrested for attempted murder. 

Shinzo Abe was flown to the hospital by helicopter and more details are awaited. 

Reports are emerging that the weapon, by which the suspect shot at former Japanese Prime minister Shinzo Abe, has been seized. Other outlets noted that it was a shotgun and Abe was shot twice.

Shinzo Abe was standing while making an election campaign speech in Nara ahead of Sunday's election for the parliament's upper house. He had been delivering several addresses across the country.

Witnesses have revealed that the suspect attempted to escape after shooting Abe close proximity. The man, who is presently under police custody, was wearing a great T-shirt and black pants. The incident took place around 11:30 AM (local time)

Japanese media reported that Shinzo Abe appeared to be in a state of cardiopulmonary arrest during a speech in Nara City 

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was reportedly shot in the chest in the city of Nara on Friday, reported Japan’s NHK. Preliminary reports have stated that the former Japanese premier was seen bleeding and had collapsed on the site.  Abe has been rushed to the hospital and the suspect has been arrested.

The assassination attempt on Japan’s longest serving prime minister came nearly two years after he resigned from the post due to health conditions. Abe, who is a close friend of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is presently 'unresponsive'.

Japan’s ex-PM was giving a speech near Yamato-Saidaiji Station in Nara. Reports state that he was shot with a gun and Nara Prefectural Police Headquarters has launched an investigation. Several reports have stated that Abe was attacked from the back.