In a condolence message the President has said, “President Mandela was a statesman, world leader and icon of inspiration of humanity.
He was a great friend of India and his contribution for strengthening the close ties between our two countries will be always remembered.
He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in honour of his contribution to the friendship between our two countries.
I convey heartfelt condolences on behalf of the people and the Government of India as well as my personal behalf to the family members of Late President Mandela and the people and the Government of South Africa”.
