Foreign leaders arrive to attend Vajpayee's funeral

Foreign dignitaries have started arriving in India to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He will be cremated today with full state honour at Smriti Sthal.

King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk arrived in Delhi on Friday morning to attend the funeral of the former Prime Minister. Subsequently, Nepal's Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali also reached Delhi to pay homage.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali on his arrival told ANI, "We remember him for his contribution to Bangladesh Liberation War and strong support to the people of Bangladesh.

He had a great liking for Bengali music. I had the privilege of serving in Delhi as career diplomat when he became the Foreign Minister."

Sri Lanka's acting Foreign Minister Lakshman Kiriella also reached India. Pakistan's acting Law and Information Minister Ali Zafar is also expected to arrive in the national capital to pay their homage to the 'Iron Man' Vajpayee.

Mortal remains of the first president of the Bharatiya Janata Party are kept at party headquarters in the capital for people to pay their homage to the departed leader.

--ANI