Colombo/Islamabad, July 8 (PTI): Prominent South Asian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday, expressed shock and anguish over the assassination of Shinzo Abe, hailing the former Japanese prime minister for his contributions towards bolstering bilateral ties and regional economic development. Abe, 67, one of his nation’s most powerful and influential figures, died after being shot during an election campaign speech in western Japan. Prime Minister Modi said he was shocked and saddened beyond words at the tragic demise of one of his “dearest friends”. “He (Abe) was a towering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator. He dedicated his life to make Japan and the world a better place,” Modi said. “Mr Abe made an immense contribution to elevating India-Japan relations to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Today, the whole of India mourns with Japan and we stand in solidarity with our Japanese brothers and sisters in this difficult moment,” Modi said. He also announced that as a mark of India’s deepest respect, one-day national mourning shall be observed on July 9. Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said he was stunned by Abe’s demise and offered...