US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of India’s former president Pranab Mukherjee.

Pompeo took to Twitter and wrote, “Saddened to hear of passing of former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, whose visionary leadership was instrumental in bringing United States & India closer together. We extend our deepest condolences to people of India during this difficult time.”

Several prominent US leaders and organisations also expressed their condolences, saying that the former president will be remembered as one of the country’s most distinguished statesmen and scholars.

Mukherjee, who served as the 13th president of India from 2012 to 2017, died on Monday, following a 21-day battle with multiple ailments. He is survived by two sons and a daughter.