Putin Pays Tribute to Manmohan Singh’s Statesmanship
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday extended his condolences to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Putin described Singh as an “outstanding statesman” who played a crucial role in India’s economic development and its global interests. He praised Singh’s contributions in strengthening India-Russia relations, noting that Singh had elevated the bilateral relationship to a “special privileged strategic partnership.” Putin emphasized that Singh’s leadership helped promote India’s interests on the world stage and that his personal contribution to strengthening ties between the two countries was invaluable.
Global Tributes Pour in for Manmohan Singh
Following Singh’s passing, world leaders and diplomats expressed their condolences and honored his legacy. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya remembered Singh for his efforts in building the foundation of Japan-India relations. In their messages, they praised Singh’s role in advancing bilateral relations. French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Singh, calling him “a great man” and a “true friend” of France. Macron expressed his condolences to Singh’s family and the people of India, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the nation. Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel described Singh as a “visionary leader” and extended sympathies to India and Singh’s family.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed heartfelt condolences, recognizing Singh’s influence beyond India’s borders. Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli also paid tribute to the former PM, recalling his wisdom, humility, and support for democracy. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hailed Singh as a cherished friend and a towering figure in India’s economic reforms. Ibrahim acknowledged Singh’s transformative leadership that helped India emerge as an economic giant.
U.S. and European Leaders Reflect on Singh’s Legacy
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed deep condolences, commending Singh for his leadership in strengthening US-India relations. Blinken praised Singh for advancing economic reforms in India and fostering a stronger strategic partnership between the two nations, notably through the US-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti honored Singh’s legacy, recognizing his monumental role in shaping US-India relations. German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann called Singh a “visionary politician” who played a key role in opening India to the world and shaping its future over the decades.
Manmohan Singh: A Legacy of Leadership
Manmohan Singh, born on September 26, 1932, was India’s 13th Prime Minister, serving from 2004 to 2014. A distinguished economist, Singh also served as the Reserve Bank of India governor from 1982 to 1985. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant economic reforms that transformed India into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Singh’s contributions to India’s rise on the global stage and his ability to maintain relations with world powers have left a lasting impact. He passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday evening at AIIMS, Delhi, due to age-related health complications.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from leaders around the world, reflecting the profound influence he had on global diplomacy and economic development. Singh will be remembered as a visionary leader whose contributions will continue to inspire future generations.
