Former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe died on Friday at the Nara Medical University Hospital after he was shot twice during a parliamentary election campaign in Nara, according to reports. He was 67.
As per the reports, the former PM was not breathing and his heart stopped while being airlifted to a hospital in Kashihara city, Nara region for emergency treatment, the reports said, adding the suspected shooter has been arrested.
Shinzo was shot twice during a campaign speech in the western Japanese city of Nara Friday morning ahead of Sunday's elections for the upper house of Parliament of Japan.
Abe was the longest-serving Japanese prime minister. He held office in 2006 and then again from 2012 to 2020, before resigning due to health reasons.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in a tweet a one-day national mourning on Saturday as a mark of respect to the former Japanese PM.
"As a mark of our deepest respect for former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, a one day national mourning shall be observed on 9 July 2022," PM Modi tweeted.
Many took to Twitter to extend their condolences over the demise of Shinzo Abe.
"Deeply saddened by the heinous killing of Shinzo Abe, a defender of democracy and my friend & colleague over many years. My deepest condolences to his family, PM @kishida230 & the people of #NATO’s partner #Japan at this difficult time," NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg tweeted.
"Incredibly sad news about Shinzo Abe. His global leadership through unchartered times will be remembered by many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the Japanese people. The UK stands with you at this dark and sad time," UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted.
PM Modi tweeted, "I am shocked and saddened beyond words at the tragic demise of one of my dearest friends, Shinzo Abe. He was a towering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator. He dedicated his life to make Japan and the world a better place".
Former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh said, "Deeply shocked by the tragic attack on my friend former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. My prayers are with him and family".
"Deeply saddened by the demise of former PM of Japan, Shinzo Abe. His role in strengthening the strategic relationship between India & Japan was commendable. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Indo-Pacific. My condolences to his family & to the people of Japan," Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted.
