Tributes from across the globe continued to pour in following former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s death in Delhi on Thursday, acknowledging his distinguished career as an economist and politician.
Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed deep sorrow over Singh’s demise, describing him as a “visionary leader.” Oli highlighted Singh’s unwavering support for democracy and his role in fostering Indo-Nepal relations.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former PM of India. A visionary leader, his wisdom, humility, and dedication shaped India and inspired the region. Nepal will forever remember his support for democracy and lasting friendship,” Oli wrote on social media platform X.
Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel echoed similar sentiments, calling Singh a “visionary leader of India.” In his message, Paudel extended heartfelt condolences to the Indian government, its citizens, and Singh’s family.
Mauritius Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam recalled his first meeting with Singh during an official visit to Mauritius before the 2005 elections. In a Facebook post, Ramgoolam described Singh as a “gentleman politician and eminent economist” whose humility and integrity left a lasting impression.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh transformed India’s economic landscape. His humility, integrity, and calmness will always be remembered. On behalf of the people and Government of Mauritius, I extend our sincere condolences to his family and close ones,” Ramgoolam added.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya expressed condolences, recognizing Singh’s pivotal role in strengthening India-Japan ties. Letters sent to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted Singh’s contributions to elevating bilateral relations.
During Singh’s visit to Japan in December 2006, he upgraded the partnership between the two nations to a “Global and Strategic Partnership,” further advancing the cooperation established in 2000 under former Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Japanese PM Yoshiro Mori.
French President Emmanuel Macron mourned Singh’s loss, describing him as both a “great man” for India and a “true friend” of France.
“India has lost a great man, and France a true friend, in the person of Dr. Manmohan Singh. Our thoughts are with his family and the people of India,” Macron wrote on X.
Born on September 26, 1932, Dr. Manmohan Singh was an economist of international repute before entering politics. He served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 1982 to 1985 and became India’s 13th Prime Minister, serving two terms from 2004 to 2014.