John Swinney said he is “shocked and saddened” at the death of Alex Salmond.

The former First Minister, died on Saturday after he collapsed following making a speech at an international conference in North Macedonia.

Alex Salmond was the first SNP first minister, from 2007 to 2014, and led the party and the independence movement into the referendum in 2014.

READ NEXT:Scotland's former First Minister Alex Salmond died age 69

Current First Minister, John Swinney, was a long-time SNP colleague of Mr Salmond and succeeded him as SNP leader in 2000.

He later served as his finance secretary in Government for many years.

The First Minister recognised Mr Salmond as the driving force of the SNP becoming the governing party of Scotland.

He said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened at the untimely death of the former First Minister Alex Salmond, and I extend my deepest condolences to Alex’s wife Moira and to his family.

“Over many years, Alex made an enormous contribution to political life - not just within Scotland, but across the UK and beyond.

“Alex worked tirelessly and fought fearlessly for the country that he loved and for her Independence.

“He took the Scottish National Party from the fringes of Scottish politics into Government and led Scotland so close to becoming an Independent country.

“There will be much more opportunity to reflect in the coming days, but today all of our thoughts are with Alex’s family and his many friends right across the political spectrum.”

Mr Salmond also served as an MP at Westminster for the SNP over two spells having been first elected in 1987. He returned to Westminster in 2015 before losing his seat in the 2017 election.

The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said he was a "monumental" figure in politics.

Keir Starmer, Prime Minister said: "For more than 30 years, Alex Salmond was a monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics. He leaves behind a lasting legacy.

"As first minister of Scotland he cared deeply about Scotland's heritage, history and culture, as well as the communities he represented as MP and MSP over many years of service.

"My thoughts are with those who knew him, his family and his loved ones. On behalf of the UK government, I offer them our condolences today."

Scotland's current opposition party leaders paid tribute to Mr Salmond as a formidable politician.

Anas Sarwar Scottish Labour leader said: “The sad news of Alex Salmond’s passing today will come as a shock to all who knew him in Scotland, across the U.K and beyond.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time and on behalf of Scottish Labour I offer our sincere condolences to all who will be mourning his loss.

“Alex was a central figure in politics for over three decades and his contribution to the Scottish political landscape can not be overstated.

“It is right that we recognise Alex’s service to our country as First Minister and to the communities he represented as both MP and MSP.”

Russell Findlay, Scottish Conservatives leader said: “I am shocked and saddened to hear of Alex Salmond’s sudden passing.

“No matter our political beliefs, we can all respect his dedication to public service as an MSP, MP and First Minister of Scotland.

“He will be remembered as a formidable and impressive politician who made a lasting impact on our country.

“The thoughts of everyone in the Scottish Conservative Party are with his family and friends.”