Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions on Thursday. Condolences have poured in from across the world for the two-time ex-PM and the architect of India's economic reforms. Many world leaders have highlighted his contributions and warm relations with their nations.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Manmohan Singh one of the "greatest champions" of the US-India strategic partnership.
"The United States offers our sincere condolences to the people of India for the passing of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. Dr Singh was one of the greatest champions of the US-India strategic partnership, and his work laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades. His leadership in advancing the US-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement signified a major investment in the potential of the US-India relationship," Blinken said.
He added, "At home, Dr Singh will be remembered for his economic reforms that spurred India's rapid economic growth. We mourn Dr Singh's passing and will always remember his dedication to bringing the United States and India closer together."
Former Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper expressed grief over the death of Manmohan Singh.
"I am saddened to learn of the passing of my former colleague, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He was an individual of exceptional intelligence, integrity, and wisdom. Laureen and I wish to convey our condolences to all his family and friends," he wrote in a post on X.
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai described Dr Singh as an "unwavering ally and friend to the people of Afghanistan".
"India has lost one of its most illustrious sons. Dr Manmohan Singh was an unwavering ally and friend to the people of Afghanistan. I profoundly mourn his passing and extend my deepest condolences to his family, the government, and the people of India. May his soul find eternal peace," he said.
Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed also expressed condolences, saying, "So sad to hear Manmohan Singh has passed. I always found him a delight to work with, and like a benevolent father figure. He was a good friend of the Maldives."
"It is moment of poignant sorrow and grief for India and for Russia. Dr Manmohan Singh's contribution to our bilateral ties was immeasurable. His suave demeanor was always endearing as unquestionable was his expertise as an economist and his commitment to the progress of India," he said.
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Brazilian President Lula da Silva also paid tributes to 'friend' Manmohan Singh, recalling his contribution in setting up of IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Dialogue Forum and the BRICS grouping.
My condolences on the passing of my friend, former Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh. We were contemporaries in government in the first decade of the 21st century and worked together to strengthen relations between our countries and build a fairer world. Singh was involved in the creation of IBSA, bringing together Brazil, South Africa and India, and in the founding of BRICS," he said.
The Brazilian President also recalled his meeting with Dr Singh in 2012.
"In 2012, when he was no longer president, we met in New Delhi and talked a lot about development, combating poverty and hunger, and cooperation in the Global South. My heartfelt sympathy to the people of India, family, friends and companions of Manmohan Singh," he wrote.
Former Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' expressed grief over the death of Manmohan Singh, calling him a "visionary leader and an extraordinary statesman".
"My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of India. His legacy will inspire generations," he wrote on X.
Former Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. A visionary economist and the architect of India's economic liberalization, his contributions shaped a new era for India. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of India."
The Embassy of Finland to India also expressed condolences saying, "Ambassador Kimmo Lahdevirta and the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi express condolences to the people of India on the passing of India's former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Rest in peace."
The Korean Embassy in India wrote: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of India during this time of loss."
Manmohan Singh was Prime Minister for two terms in the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government from 2004 to 2014. The former Prime Minister's last rites will be conducted with full state honours. A seven-day state mourning will be observed throughout the country as a mark of respect to Dr Singh.
