The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has expressed shock and grief at the passing away of former President, Shri R. Venkataraman. Describing Shri Venkataraman as an outstanding figure of our public life, the Prime Minister said that the former President will be long remembered for his service to the Nation, his strength of character and his knowledge and wisdom. The Prime Minister expressed his deepest condolences to the members of Shri Venkataraman's family and his friends and admirers.