Condolences are streaming in from across the world, marking the profound loss of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Esteemed leaders from the United States, Canada, Sri Lanka, and neighbouring nations like Nepal, Maldives, and Afghanistan have joined India in mourning the passing of a visionary leader.
Dr. Singh, credited as the architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. He leaves behind his wife Gursharan Kaur, a distinguished history professor, and three daughters.
Tributes pour infrom World Leaders
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed Dr. Singh as a pivotal figure in strengthening the US-India partnership. “Dr. Singh was one of the greatest champions of the US-India strategic partnership. His leadership in the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement showcased his commitment to advancing bilateral ties,” Blinken said. He extended heartfelt condolences to India, acknowledging Dr. Singh’s role in fostering the nations’ shared accomplishments over the past two decades.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper expressed his sorrow, remembering Singh as a man of “exceptional intelligence, integrity, and wisdom.” Harper, alongside his wife Laureen, extended sympathies to Dr. Singh’s family and friends.
In South Asia, the tributes were equally poignant. Nepal’s former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ described Singh as a “visionary leader and extraordinary statesman” whose legacy will inspire future generations. Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed reflected on Singh’s warmth, calling him a “benevolent father figure” and a steadfast friend to the Maldives.
Dr. Singh’s Global and National Legacy
Sri Lanka’s former President Mahinda Rajapaksa recognized Singh as the “architect of India’s economic liberalization” and credited him with shaping India’s rise as an economic powerhouse. Similarly, Afghanistan’s former President Hamid Karzai called Dr. Singh “an unwavering ally and friend” to Afghanistan, mourning his loss as one of India’s most illustrious sons.
The Indian government has declared a seven-day national mourning period to honor the revered statesman. His last rites will be performed with full state honors, reflecting his monumental contributions to the nation.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister and his earlier role as India’s Finance Minister transformed the country’s economic landscape. His pioneering reforms opened up the Indian economy, ushering in an era of growth and globalization. His diplomatic finesse fostered stronger relations with both neighbouring and global powers.
As India and the world bid farewell to a leader of unmatched intellect and vision, Dr. Singh’s legacy as a reformer, economist, and statesman will continue to resonate across generations. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
