President Ma Ying-jeou has sent his condolences to Singapore over the death of former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
Lee died on Monday morning at the age of 91 after being hospitalized for several weeks with pneumonia.
Presidential Office Spokesman Charles Chen said on Monday that Ma sent his condolences via the foreign ministry.
“President Ma Ying-jeou has offered his deepest condolences to Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, the [former leader’s] family members, and the people of Singapore," said Chen. "President Ma said that Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s vision, clean and efficient governance, and dedication to the people had turned Singapore into one of the world’s leading nations, and that he was a remarkable leader who will be remembered by the global community."
Chen also quoted President Ma as saying that the close friendship between Lee and former President Chiang Ching-kuo formed a solid basis for the long-standing relations between Singapore and Taiwan.
President Ma met with Lee Kuan Yew on several occasions. During their meetings, Lee more than once praised Chiang Ching-kuo’s contributions to Taiwan. Lee also said he was pleased about the positive developments in Taiwan’s ties with China.