Outgoing US President Joe Biden has paid a heartfelt tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, describing him as a “true statesman” and “dedicated public servant.” Dr. Singh, known for his pivotal role in India’s 1991 economic reforms that steered the nation away from bankruptcy, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92.
In a statement released on Friday, Biden reflected on the significant contributions of Dr. Singh, particularly his strategic vision in advancing US-India relations. “The unprecedented level of cooperation between the United States and India today would not have been possible without the Prime Minister’s strategic vision and political courage,” Biden said.
Biden highlighted the historic US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement as one of Dr. Singh’s landmark achievements. Signed under the leadership of Dr. Singh and then US President George W. Bush, the 2005 agreement marked a turning point in bilateral relations, enabling India to access civilian nuclear technology and fuel from other nations.
Following approval by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2008, the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) granted India a waiver, paving the way for civilian nuclear trade. This groundbreaking deal symbolized the deepening partnership between the two nations and set the stage for closer cooperation in energy and technology sectors.
Biden also recalled his personal interactions with Dr. Singh. As Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he met Singh during pivotal negotiations in 2008 and later as Vice President during Singh’s official visit to the US in 2009. Biden fondly remembered being hosted by Dr. Singh in New Delhi in 2013, where they discussed the growing significance of the US-India partnership.
“The US-India relationship is among the most consequential in the world,” Biden stated. “Together, as partners and friends, our nations can unlock a future of dignity and unlimited potential for all of our people.”
Offering condolences, Biden extended his sympathies to Singh’s wife, Gursharan Kaur, their children, and the people of India. “During this difficult time, we recommit to this vision to which Prime Minister Singh dedicated his life,” he said.
Manmohan Singh’s funeral will take place today at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi, with full state honors. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other prominent leaders are expected to attend the ceremony, marking a solemn farewell to one of India’s most respected statesmen.
