(Seychelles News Agency) - The President of the Seychelles James Michel has expressed his condolences to the government and people of India following the demise of former Indian President Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam who passed away on Monday at the age of 83.

In a press statement issued by State House yesterday evening, the Seychellois Head of State described his passing as “a great loss to the world” adding that “he leaves behind a powerful legacy, having taken his country to great heights during his tenure, and paving the way for the creation of a modern and prosperous India.”

“Dr. Abdul Kalam was an inspirational leader, a top innovator, a talented teacher and an individual who very naturally captured the hearts and respect of the people of India and the international community as a whole, including that of the Seychellois people,” said Michel in the press statement.

The Seychellois President who has been on State Visits to India, personally met and held discussions with the former President during his visit there in August 2005.

Abdul Kalam served as India's 11th president between 2002 and 2007. He is also a renowned scientist for having been involved in India’s military missile and weapons programme.

According to an article published by the AFP, he died after he collapsed during a lecture at a management institute.

India has declared seven days of national mourning as is customary following the death of a former leader.

In Seychelles, the Indian High Commission has opened a condolence book until tomorrow Thursday July 30.

Seychelles and India established diplomatic relations in June 1976.