In his condolence message, Kalam said the country had "lost a great leader with a noble and inspiring value system." He also paid homage by laying a wreath at Kapurthala house in New Delhi, where the former President's body was, and conveyed condolences to his family.
Remembering his personal association with his predecessor, Kalam said: "I was often benefited by his counsel in many matters. I have known his high intellectual ability and admired his scholarly advice. He distinguished himself as a diplomat, an educationist, Member of Parliament, minister in the Union Government, Vice-President of India and Chairman, Rajya Sabha, and as President of India in every respect."
Photograph courtesy: Rashtrapati Bhavan