Moscow [Russia]: Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.
In a statement, President Putin described Singh as an “outstanding statesman” who significantly contributed to India’s economic progress and global influence. Putin also acknowledged Singh’s pivotal role in enhancing India-Russia relations, elevating them to a “special privileged strategic partnership.”
“Manmohan Singh was an outstanding statesman. As Prime Minister and when serving in other high-ranking positions, he accomplished a lot in promoting India’s economic development and asserting its interests on the world stage. He also made a major personal contribution to strengthening friendly ties between our two countries by elevating them to the level of a special privileged strategic partnership,” Putin said.
The Russian leader recalled his personal interactions with Singh, adding, “I had the occasion of talking with this remarkable man several times. We will cherish the memory of him.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday evening at AIIMS, Delhi, at the age of 92 due to age-related health complications. He reportedly lost consciousness at home and was rushed to the hospital.
Born on September 26, 1932, Singh was a distinguished economist who served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 1982 to 1985. He was the 13th Prime Minister of India, holding office from 2004 to 2014.
The news of his passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from world leaders, who recognized his contributions to India’s development and international relations.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya expressed their condolences, acknowledging Singh’s role in strengthening Japan-India ties. “His endeavours built the foundation for the development of Japan-India relations,” they stated through the Japanese Foreign Ministry.
French President Emmanuel Macron mourned the loss of a “great man” for India and a “true friend” for France. “India has lost a great man, and France a true friend, in the person of Dr. Manmohan Singh. He had devoted his life to his country,” Macron wrote on X.
India has lost a great man, and France a true friend, in the person of Dr. Manmohan Singh. He had devoted his life to his country. Our thoughts are with his family and the people of India.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 27, 2024
Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel described Singh as a “visionary leader,” extending sympathies to India and Singh’s family. Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also highlighted Singh’s legacy, stating, “His wisdom, humility, and dedication shaped India and inspired the region.”
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed similar sentiments. Ibrahim reflected on Singh’s role as the architect of India’s economic reforms, describing him as a “cherished friend.”
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed Singh as a key figure in strengthening US-India relations, particularly through initiatives like the US-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. US Ambassador Eric Garcetti lauded Singh’s “selfless contributions” to India’s growth.
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov and German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann also paid heartfelt tributes. Ackermann noted Singh’s role in elevating the India-Germany strategic partnership, describing him as a “truly visionary politician.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy as a statesman, economist, and reformer continues to inspire leaders and people worldwide.