The first prime minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, died on Monday morning. He was 91.
He was hospitalized in Singapore General Hospital in early February with severe pneumonia. Last week his condition deteriorated rapidly and, despite the best efforts of doctors, they were unable to save their patient.
"The Prime Minister is deeply grieved to announce the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, the founding Prime Minister of Singapore," RIA Novosti cited the current head of government of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong.
A period of national mourning was declared in the country from 23-29 March in connection with the death of the politician.
Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore’s Prime Minister from 1959 to 1990, and he is widely recognized as the founding father of modern Singapore. He is one of the creators of the economic miracle.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon issued a statement of condolence over Lee Kuan Yew. "Lee Kuan Yew was a legendary figure in Asia, widely respected for his strong leadership and statesmanship. During his three decades in office, he helped Singapore in the transition from a developing country to one of the most developed in the world, transforming it into a thriving international business hub," he said.
