Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was laid to rest in Delhi on Saturday, with global leaders paying their respects. Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful attended the funeral, marking his legacy of international respect and diplomacy.
A Visionary for Regional Cooperation
Manmohan Singh, a firm believer in regional unity, once remarked, “India cannot realise its destiny without the partnership of its South Asian neighbours.” As Prime Minister, he visited Bhutan in 2008, strongly supporting its democratic transition.
Leaders from South Asia, including Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Bangladeshi Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, expressed their condolences on his passing.
Tributes from Across the Globe
Mauritius and Singapore honored Singh by flying their national flags at half-mast. The Mauritius Prime Minister’s Office stated, “The Mauritius Flag will be flown at half-mast on all Government buildings until sunset today.” Singapore’s High Commissioner H.C. Wong echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing Singh’s global impact.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden hailed Singh as a “true statesman” and credited him for advancing U.S.-India relations. Biden highlighted Singh’s pivotal role in the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement and the establishment of the Quad. Reflecting on their meetings, Biden called the U.S.-India partnership one of the most consequential relationships globally.
Global Leaders Reflect on Singh’s Legacy
French President Emmanuel Macron remembered Singh as “a true friend” of France, while Russian President Vladimir Putin praised his role in strengthening ties between India and Russia. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who visited India during Singh’s tenure, called him a “wise politician and economist.”
Abbas wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing his condolences and recalling Singh’s contributions to India’s global stature. He also mentioned the foundation stone of Palestine’s embassy in New Delhi, laid during Singh’s leadership.
A Statesman Remembered
Manmohan Singh’s legacy extends beyond borders, reflecting his dedication to diplomacy, economic reforms, and global cooperation. His vision continues to inspire leaders worldwide.
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