New Delhi, Aug 16: The governments of Bangladesh and Pakistan expressed grief over the demise of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who passed away at AIIMS today. In the official statement issued, both Islamabad and Dhaka recalled Vajpayee as "statesman" who worked towards peace in the South Asian region.

Pakistan PM-elect Imran Khan said Vajpayee's death has left an unprecedented void in South Asian politics. "In such difficult times, we stand with India," he said.

"There can be political differences but the desire of peace remains present across the border," Khan added.

In a separate statement issued, the Pakistan government said the nation would recall the statesman approach of Vajpayee towards Indo-Pak bilateral relations.

"He was a renowned statesman who contributed to bringing a change in Indo-Pak relations and remained key supporter of SAARC and regional cooperation for development. Pakistan government and people extend their heartfelt condolences to his family and to the Government and people of India," the statement added.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina said Vajpayee would be recalled in Dhaka as one who supported the war of Bangladesh's liberation. "As a token of recognition for his invaluable contribution to our Liberation War in 1971, Bangladesh government conferred on him Bangladesh Liberation War Honour. Today is a day of great sadness for all of us in Bangladesh," she said.

"Deeply shocked at sad demise of former PM of India #AtalBihariVajpayee, one of the most famous sons of India. He'll be remembered for contributing towards good governance & highlighting issues affecting common people of India as well as regional peace and prosperity," Hasina added.

Vajpayee passed away at 5:05 pm on Thursday after reeling under prolonged illness for over a decade. His overall health deteriorated in 2009, when he suffered a stroke and was subsequently gripped under dementia. Since then, he was left speech-impaired.

The BJP patriarch was hospitalised on June 11, due to urinary tract infection, low urine output and chest congestion. His vitals began collapsing on Wednesday night. Within 24 hours, the former PM died.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 16, 2018 11:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).