New Delhi, March 24 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee wrote to the Singapore president on Tuesday to extend his condolences on the passing away of the first prime minister of the island nation, Lee Kuan Yew.

In a letter to President Tony Tan Keng Yam, Mukherjee said: "I learned with great sadness of the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, former prime minister and founding father of Singapore."

"One of the greatest statesmen of our times, Lee dedicated himself to the transformation of Singapore into a highly developed, modern city-state and the vibrant economic power that it is today. He has left an unmatched legacy for his people," he said.

Describing Lee as a "genuine" friend of India, Mukherjee said Lee would "long be remembered for laying the strong foundation of the excellent cooperation between India and Singapore and also India's close engagement with the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and countries in the region".

In his message to the Singapore president, Mukherjee expressed hope that Lee's "vision will continue to motivate future generations in Singapore and inspire states and leaders around the world".

"Please accept the heartfelt condolences of the people of India. We offer our deepest sympathies to the people of Singapore and grieving members of Lee Kuan Yew's family," he wrote.