Dr Manmohan Singh (September 26, 1932 – December 26, 2024)
New Delhi: World leaders from various nations expressed profound sorrow and admiration following the passing of Dr Manmohan Singh, India’s former prime minister, who died at the age of 92 on Thursday. Singh was widely recognized as the father figure in India’s economic transformation and a respected statesman on the global stage.
His contributions to economic reforms and international relations were highlighted in tributes from numerous dignitaries.
Condolences from Global Leaders
Russia
The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, paying tribute to Singh described him as an “outstanding statesman” who made substantial contributions to strengthening India-Russia ties. In his message, Putin acknowledged Singh’s efforts in promoting India’s economic development and asserted that he significantly elevated bilateral relations to a special privileged strategic partnership.
France
The French president, Emmanuel Macron, expressed his condolences and stated: “India has lost a great man, and France a true friend.” He praised Singh’s dedication to his country and extended thoughts to his family and the people of India.
Malaysia
The Malaysian prime minister, Anwar Ibrahim, shared a heartfelt tribute on X and recalled how Singh supported him during difficult times by offering scholarships for his children while he was imprisoned. Ibrahim said: “Although I had declined the gracious offer, such a gesture undoubtedly showed his extraordinary humanity and generosity, demonstrative, as the Bard would have it, of a man so full of ‘the milk of human kindness’.” He also characterized Singh as “the midwife of India’s emergence as one of the world’s economic giants,” highlighting both his political awkwardness and steadfastness as a statesman.
Bangladesh
The Bangladesh foreign ministry conveyed deep condolences through its chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus, who described Singh as a visionary leader committed to the welfare of the Indian people. Yunus noted that Singh’s leadership not only shaped India's future but also strengthened ties between India and Bangladesh.
Bhutan
The Bhutanese prime minister, Tshering Thobgay, paying his tributes to Singh, called him a “remarkable statesman” and a “cherished friend” of Bhutan. He said Singh’s wisdom, compassion, and leadership touched many lives, and also strengthened the bond between India and Bhutan. Offering his condolences, Thobgay said India’s loss was immense, and Singh’s legacy will remain in the hearts of Bhutanese people forever.
United States
The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken called Singh “one of the greatest champions” of the US-India strategic partnership. He emphasized Singh’s role in advancing the India-US Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, which he described as a significant investment in the bilateral relationship. Blinken noted: “Dr Singh’s leadership laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades,” and recognized his domestic economic reforms that spurred rapid growth in India.
China
China paid tribute to Singh saying that he made a “positive contribution” to the development of relations between New Delhi and Beijing, recalling key agreements signed between the two countries during his tenure to address the vexed boundary issue. The Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, replying to a question on Singh’s legacy during a media briefing said Singh played a key role in the improvement of the ties between the two countries. She said China deeply condoles Singh’s passing and extends its sympathy to the Indian government and people and Singh’s family.
European Union
The European Union also expressed its condolences through its Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin. He described Singh as a genuine friend of the EU and acknowledged his legacy as a key architect of India's economic rise on the global stage.
The Maldives
Mohamed Nasheed, former Maldivian president, condoling Singh’s passing said: “I always found him a delight to work with, and like a benevolent father figure.”
Abdulla Shahid, former Maldivian speaker of parliament, recalled Singh’s historic visit to the Maldives in 2011 when he became the first head of state to address the Maldivian parliament. Shahid remembered Singh fondly and expressed sadness over his passing, highlighting their interactions that benefited him during his political career.
Afghanistan
Hamid Karzai, former Afghan president, referred to Singh as “one of India’s most illustrious sons” and an unwavering ally to Afghanistan. He mourned Singh’s passing deeply and extended heartfelt condolences to India, while emphasizing Singh’s enduring friendship with the Afghan people.
Canada
Stephen Harper, former Canadian prime minister, expressed sorrow over Singh’s death, recalling him as an individual of exceptional intelligence and integrity. Harper conveyed condolences to Singh’s family and friends, reflecting on their collaborative experiences.
Legacy and Impact
Dr Manmohan Singh’s passing marks a significant loss for India and the global community. His tenure as prime minister from 2004 to 2014 was marked by transformative economic policies that laid the groundwork for India’s rapid growth. As finance minister in the 1990s, he played a crucial role in liberalizing India’s economy, which garnered him respect across political lines both domestically and internationally.
Singh’s diplomatic efforts fostered strong relationships with various nations, reflecting his commitment to enhancing India’s global standing. His legacy will likely continue to inspire future leaders in India and beyond.
