Government representatives paid tribute Monday to the life and legacy of Singaporean senior statesman Lee Kuan Yew, with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe calling him "one of the greatest leaders of modern times that Asia has produced."

Abe credited Lee with laying the foundations for the city-state's prosperity through his political engagement spanning more than half a century.

"Offering heartfelt condolences, I'd like to express my sympathy with the bereaved family, including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and the people of Singapore," Abe told reporters at his office.