New Delhi, April 7 (NationPress) The Secretary (South) of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Neena Malhotra, represented the Government of India by signing the condolence book at the Embassy of Suriname in New Delhi this Tuesday, extending her sympathies over the passing of former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.

According to a statement posted on X by the Ministry of External Affairs, "Secretary (South) Dr. Neena Malhotra visited the Embassy of the Republic of Suriname and, on behalf of the people and Government of India, signed the condolence book to express sorrow over the demise of former President Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi."

Santokhi, who served as President of Suriname from 2020 until his untimely death on March 30 at the age of 67, was a prominent leader of the Progressive Reform Party and previously held the role of Justice Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences the day after Santokhi's death, reflecting on their personal connection and acknowledging Santokhi's contributions to enhancing bilateral relations between India and Suriname.

"I am deeply pained by the sudden passing of my friend and the former President of Suriname, Mr. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Ji. This loss is not only immense for Suriname but for the global Indian community as well," PM Modi stated in a post on X.

He continued, "I fondly remember our numerous meetings. His unwavering dedication to Suriname and his role in fortifying India-Suriname relations were evident during our conversations. His affection for Indian culture was clear, particularly when he took his oath in Sanskrit."

"I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family and the citizens of Suriname during this sorrowful time. Om Shanti," he concluded.

The Prime Minister also shared images from their previous meetings.

Chandrikapersad Santokhi was born in Lelydorp, located in the Wanica district of Suriname, into an Indo-Surinamese Hindu family as the youngest of nine siblings. His grandparents came from Bihar as indentured laborers in the 19th century.

His father worked at the Paramaribo harbor, while his mother was a shop assistant. Due to his initial career in law enforcement, he was affectionately nicknamed 'Sheriff.'

As a leader of Indian descent in a nation where around 27% of the population has roots in Indian indentured laborers, Santokhi was instrumental in enhancing connections with India in various sectors including trade, energy, and culture.

He was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman and served as the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.