World leaders express sadness, outrage over death of Shinzo Abe, paying tribute to 'friend', 'brilliant leader'

Shinzo Abe has been remembered as a globally well-respected and influential leader. (AP via Kyodo News: Yohei Kanazashi)

World leaders have expressed their shock and sadness over the fatal shooting of former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe in a country considered by many to be one of the world's safest.

Mr Abe, 67, was gunned down from behind while giving a campaign speech in the western Japanese city of Nara on Friday.