Taiwan President pays tribute to late President Lee

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen was among dignitaries who paid their respects to Lee Teng-hui at a memorial service on Saturday.

Vice-President Lai Ching-te and Japan's chief representative to Taiwan Izumi Hiroyasu also attended the ceremony at the historical Taipei Guest House.

"Japan and Taiwan both lost a person that was very important to each of them. My heart is filled with sorrow. He laid the foundation for this free and democratic Taiwan of today," Hiroyasu said.

Taipei Veterans General Hospital said Lee died on Thursday evening at the age of 97 after suffering from infections, cardiac problems and organ failure since being hospitalised in February.

Hsu, was one of many residents who also came to pay tribute to the former president.

"Today, I come from Taichung to express my gratitude and respect," she said.

The presidential office and other governmental buildings are flying the national flag at half-mast to mourn the death.