President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu paid tribute to the late Dr. Manmohan Singh by signing the condolence book opened at the High Commission of India in the Maldives. The gesture followed the passing of Dr. Singh, a two-term Prime Minister of India, who was instrumental in shaping India’s economic policies and fostering international cooperation.
Dr. Singh, 92, passed away after being admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. According to hospital officials, he was undergoing treatment for age-related medical conditions and had been admitted following a sudden loss of consciousness.
In his condolence message, President Muizzu described Dr. Singh as a visionary leader and a statesman of great personal integrity. Reflecting on Dr. Singh’s historic visit to the Maldives in 2011, President Muizzu remarked that the visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening the relationship between the two nations. On behalf of the government and people of the Maldives, President Muizzu extended heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Singh’s family, as well as the government and people of India.
President Muizzu also shared a tribute on social media, highlighting Dr. Singh’s role in promoting regional cooperation through his leadership of India’s ‘Look East Policy.’ He praised Dr. Singh’s commitment to progress and development across South Asia.
Dr. Singh was a distinguished economist-turned-politician, serving as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and leaving behind a legacy as one of the nation’s longest-serving leaders. Born in 1932 in what is now Pakistan, he rose from humble beginnings to earn degrees from Cambridge and Oxford, where his doctoral thesis focused on free trade’s role in India’s economy.
Dr. Singh began his political career in 1991 as finance minister, during which he introduced critical reforms to rescue India from an economic crisis. His efforts opened the Indian economy to the global market, laying the foundation for subsequent economic growth.
As Prime Minister, Dr. Singh led India through a period of rapid economic expansion, introducing welfare schemes aimed at reducing rural poverty. In 2008, his government achieved a landmark nuclear agreement with the United States, which bolstered New Delhi’s ties with Washington and enabled peaceful nuclear energy trade for the first time in decades.
Despite his achievements, Dr. Singh’s tenure was often hindered by political challenges within his party and coalition. After stepping down as Prime Minister, he maintained a low profile, continuing to be respected for his intellect and integrity.
Dr. Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian politics, with leaders and nations across the world acknowledging his enduring contributions to India’s progress and its role on the global stage.
