India's Parliament Thursday paid tributes to former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez by observing a minute's silence in his memory.

Chairman of Rajya Sabha (the Upper House) Hamid Ansari, also the country's vice president, said that relations between India and Venezuela strengthened during Chavez's 14-year rule.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday condoled his death.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of His Excellency President Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias. The people of India join me in conveying our heartfelt condolence to his family and to the government and people of Venezuela," the prime minister said.

He added: "Venezuela has lost a charismatic and immensely popular leader in President Chavez who leaves a legacy of striving for social justice."

In his message, Singh had also expressed his gratitude for Chavez's "personal efforts" in strengthening relations between India and Venezuela.

"We will continue to work towards even closer relations with the friendly people of Venezuela," he added.

Chavez, who ruled Venezuela for over 14 years and led a left- wing revival across South America, died at a hospital in capital Caracus Tuesday after a long battle with cancer, at the age of 58. Endi

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