Auckland, 29 July 2015 – It is with great sadness that I learned of the death of former Indian President, Dr A. P .J. Abdul Kalam. On behalf of Labour, I would like to express my condolence and sympathies to the family of Dr Kalam, the people of India and to the Indian communities in New Zealand.
Dr Abdul Kalam served as India’s President from 2002 to 2007 and was known to be one of the country’s most popular Presidents. An eminent scientist, Dr Kalam played a pivotal role in India’s civilian space programme. Prior to entering politics, he was the Chief Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister and was awarded the country’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, for his contributions.
Dr Kalam was greatly admired for his intellect, his vision for India’s development and for his warmth and humility. He spoke and wrote extensively of the role of youth in India’s development, and was a role model for many young Indians.
Phil Goff MP
(Labour Spokesperson on Ethnic Communities)
