Anguished by former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's demise: M Venkaiah Naidu

New Delhi: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday expressed anguish over the demise of former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, and said he played a crucial role in strengthening India-Japan ties.

Abe, one of his nation's most powerful and influential figures, died after being shot during a campaign speech on Friday in western Japan, according to NHK public television. "Anguished by the demise of former Japanese Prime Minister, Mr Shinzo Abe.

Mr Abe played a crucial role in strengthening India-Japan ties," Naidu said in a tweet. "My deepest condolences to his family members and the people of Japan," he added.