Simon Cowell feels 'empty' and 'heartbroken' after Liam Payne's death

Simon Cowell speaks for the first time since his former protégé Liam Payne died… issuing a moving statement on social media.

The creator of “The

Simon wrote to Liam directly in his statement, expressing… “Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you.”

Simon confessed that it was “difficult to put into words” the totality of his pain… and noted that he was reflecting on their many memories together.

He went on to remember Liam as a “kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble and grounded” person who had an incredible talent for music.

Simon recalled his first meeting with Liam… which occurred when the late One Route alum was just 14 years old auditioning for “The X Issue” for the first time. While Liam didn't make it through, Simon credited Liam for coming back and auditioning again…which led to the creation of 1D.

Simon said he met up with Liam last year, when they caught up and talked about their years together… and LP declared “how proud” he was to be a father.

She added… “After you left, I remembered that you were still the sweet, kind boy I knew all those years ago.”

Signing his note, Simon said he would keep Liam's family, friends and fans in his thoughts during this difficult time.

Liam passed away in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Wednesday after falling from the balcony of his third-floor resort room. A police officer later told The Related Press that the singer “had jumped from the balcony of his room.” An investigation is ongoing.

According to local officials, Liam suffered multiple injuries from the fall, resulting in his death from “internal and external hemorrhage.”

Although a toxicology report is still pending, an emergency call from staff has emerged moments before his death… that he claimed a resort guest was “overwhelmed” by drugs and alcohol in the midst of a breakdown.