US President Barack Obama has written to the family of slain LGBT magazine editor Xulhaz Mannan and extended his condolences.

In the letter dated May 5, President Obama said he along with his wife Michelle joined the grief with the family of Xulhaz saying the "pain of a loss like this is indescribable."

A family member of Xulhaz Mannan confirmed The Daily Star about receiving the letter from the US President. The Daily Star also obtained a copy of the letter.

Xulhaz Mannan, an employee of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), who also served the US Embassy in Dhaka, was killed along with friend Mahbub Tonoy at his residence on April 25.

"I hope it brings you some measure of solace to know that his courageous, compassionate spirit will endure through all who knew and loved him, and in all who are inspired by the difference he made- now and for generations to come," the letter from the White House read.

President Obama also said in the letter that he is holding "Xulhaz in his thoughts during this extraordinarily difficult time."