President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday condoled the demise of former Portugal president Mario Alberto Nobre Lopes Soares.
"I learned with sadness of the passing of former President of Portugal, His Excellency Mr. Mario Alberto Nobre Lopes Soares. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India," President Mukherjee said.
He added that president Soares would be remembered as the 'Founding Father of Democracy' in Portugal and as a world figure, deeply appreciated for his contribution to human rights and world peace.
"His central role in the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Portugal and India in 1974 is still remembered," he added.
The President conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family of president Mario Soares and to the Portugal Government.