Tributes have been pouring in over early Friday’s assassination of former Prime Minister of Japanese, Shinzo Abe.
Abe was shot twice while delivering a campaign speech Friday morning.
His assassination has thrown Japan and the world into mourning.
Former President of the United States, Barack Obama said “I am shocked and saddened by the assassination of my friend and longtime partner Shinzo Abe in Japan. Former Prime Minister Abe was devoted to both the country he served and the extraordinary alliance between the United States and Japan.
“I will always remember the work we did to strengthen our alliance, the moving experience of traveling to Hiroshima and Pearl Harbor together, and the grace he and his wife Akie Abe showed to me and Michelle.”
Embattled outgoing Prime Minister of Britain, Boris Johnson, said “Incredibly sad news about Shinzo Abe. His global leadership through unchartered times will be remembered by many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the Japanese people. The UK stands with you at this dark and sad time.”
French President, Emmanuel Macron, wrote, “On behalf of the French people, I send my condolences to the Japanese authorities and people after the assassination of Shinzo Abe. Japan is losing a great Prime Minister, who dedicated his life to his country and worked to bring balance to the world.
“Deeply shocked by the heinous attack that Shinzo Abe suffered. Thoughts to the family and loved ones of a great Prime Minister. France stands alongside the Japanese people.”
United States President, Joe Biden, in his statement said he was stunned by the killing of Abe.
Abe, whom he called his friend, according to him was champion of the friendship between the Japanese and the Americans.
Biden said, “I am stunned, outraged, and deeply saddened by the news that my friend Abe Shinzo, former Prime Minister of Japan, was shot and killed. He was a champion of the friendship between our people. The United States stands with Japan in this moment of grief.”