New Delhi: The popularity of former Indian president APJ Abdul Kalam is far-stretched. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday paid tributes to India's 'Missile Man', calling him an exponent of closer friendly relations between the two nations.

Putin in his message said, “Kindly accept deepest condolences on sad passing away of the former President of India Dr Abdul Kalam. In Russia, He will be remembered as a consistent exponent of closer friendly relations between our nations who has done a lot for cementing mutually beneficial Russian-Indian cooperation.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mohd Najib Tun Razak also paid homage to Kalam by tweeting, “Condolences to the friends and family of India's former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. His passing is a loss to the scientific community.”

Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit and Israeli Ambassador Daniel Carmon were among the top foreign diplomats to visit the late President's residence here to pay tributes, many others conveyed their condolences.

"My condolences to the Indian people on the passing of former President Abdul Kalam, an inspiring scientist and leader," US Ambassador Richard Verma said.

Kalam breathed his last on July 27, 2015 in Shilong.