"I am saddened to learn about the untimely passing away of Lee Kuan Yew, founding leader and the first prime minister of Singapore," the PM said in his message. "At this moment of grief, the people and government of Nepal join me in extending the heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Your Excellency and through you to the bereaved family members of the late leader and the people of Singapore."

Lee Kuan Yew was a legendary leader of his times, he stated. The contributions made by him in the rapid transformation of Singapore as a modern and prosperous country remain inspiring, Koirala noted. "In his death, the world has lost a fine statesman and Singapore its architect." (PR)