New Delhi, August 24: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday expressed sadness over the demise of former Union finance minister Arun Jaitley, and said he was a politician who was "appreciated across parties".

Ailing for long, Jaitley died at AIIMS on Saturday. "Extremely saddened at the passing away of Arun Jaitley Ji, after a battle bravely borne." Arun Jaitley Dies at 66: Former Finance Minister Breathes His Last at AIIMS

"An outstanding Parliamentarian & a brilliant lawyer, appreciated across parties. His contribution to Indian polity will be remembered. My condolences to his wife, children, friends & admirers," Banerjee said in a statement.