Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) President Lobsang Sangay, who heads the Tibetan government in exile, on Tuesday paid tributes to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee by remembering his meeting with the exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in 2016 despite an opposition by China. Mukherjee, who passed away on Monday evening, was one of India's most remarkable and well-respected leader across all party lines, Sangay said in a statement.

"On behalf of the Tibetan people and the Central Tibetan Administration, I offer our deepest condolences the government of India, the Indian people and his family," he said in a condolence message.

"One of India's most remarkable and well-respected leaders across all party lines, Sri Pranab ji has served India with unflinching dedication in various significant positions in his political career that spanned over five decades.

"In 2016, the former President hosted His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Rashtrapati Bhawan along with other Nobel Peace Laureates despite strong opposition from the Chinese government.

"As India mourns the irreparable loss of a colossal leader, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of India and Sir Pranab ji's family in this time of grief," Sangay added.

The Dalai Lama condoled the demise of former President Mukherjee and said for 84 years he led a meaningful life.

(IANS)