China condoles Vajpayee's death

Beijing : China on Friday expressed its condolences on the death of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and called him an "outstanding Indian statesman" for his contribution to the Sino-Indian ties.

"Vajpayee was an outstanding Indian statesman and made outstanding contribution to the Sino-Indian ties," the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"China expresses its deep condolences to the Indian government and its people," it said.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a condolence message to the Indian leaders.

Vajpayee, 93, passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi on Thursday following a prolonged illness.