Indian PM Modi condoles death of Soviet leader Gorbachev

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences over the demise of former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and recalled his contribution to strengthening relations with India.

"I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of H.E. Mr. Mikhail Gorbachev, one of the leading statesmen of the 20th century who left an indelible mark on the course of history. We recall and value his contribution to strengthening of relations with India," tweeted PM Modi. Gorbachev died on August 30 evening at 91 after a long illness.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Outgoing UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had also expressed condolences over the demise of Gorbachev.

Sputnik News Agency citing the hospital stated that he died after a severe and long illness.

"Mikhail Sergeevich Gorbachev died this evening after a serious and long illness," the agency citing the Central Clinical Hospital said on August 30.
Mikhail Gorbachev was the last leader of the United Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). He was a young and dynamic soviet leader who wanted to reform the communist regime along the lines of democratic principles by giving some freedom to citizens.

(ANI)