New Delhi, Sep 3 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday condoled the death of Uzbekistan President Islam Karimov who died on Friday due to brain haemorrhage.

In a condolence message addressed to Nigmatilla Yuldashev, the acting President and chairman of the Senate of Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan, the President said: "I am deeply grieved to hear of the sad demise of Islam Karimov, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family members, government and the people of Uzbekistan."

He further said that late President Islam Karimov was highly regarded in India.

"During his visit to India in 2011, our bilateral relationship was upgraded to a strategic partnership. Under his leadership, Uzbekistan made tremendous economic and social progress and ensured safety and security for its people".

Karimov, 78, who had served as President of the newly independent republic since 1991, died from brain haemorrhage on Friday after being hospitalised following a stroke on August 27.