New Delhi, March 31 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the death of former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, saying his passing was not only a great loss to his own country but also to the global Indian diaspora.
Modi said Santokhi had a special fondness for Indian culture and won the hearts of many when he took oath in Sanskrit.
"I am deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of my friend and the former President of Suriname, Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Ji. This is not only a great loss for Suriname but also for the global Indian diaspora," he said in a message.
The prime minister also fondly recalled his many meetings with Santokhi and said the Suriname leader's tireless service for his country and his efforts in strengthening India-Suriname relations were clearly reflected in their interactions.
"I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Suriname in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," he said.
Santokhi, 67, who was the president of Suriname from 2020 to 2025, died on Monday. He was the chairman of Suriname's Progressive Reform Party and also served as his country's justice minister from 2005 to 2010.