Washington, Dec 17 (IANS) Indian ambassador Meera Shankar offered condolences over the death of Richard Holbrooke, US special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, describing him as a "giant of diplomacy" in the cause of world peace.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Ambassador Richard Holbrooke," she wrote signing the condolence book for Holbrooke at the State Department Thursday.

"He was a giant of diplomacy and leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in the service of his nation and in the cause of world peace."

Shankar said she had been in regular touch with Holbrooke over the past two years and had come to respect his intellect and remarkable determination and energy.

"I admired his commitment to the challenging task he had been assigned. I will miss him as a valuable colleague and interlocutor.

"Our prayers are with his family at this time of grief. I convey my deepest condolences on behalf of the Government of India and on my own behalf," she wrote.