PM Wong sends condolence letter on death of India’s former PM Manmohan Singh
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Former Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh died on Dec 26 at the age of 92.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Lee Nian Tjoe
SINGAPORE – India’s former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who died on Dec 26 at the age of 92, was a statesman who reshaped and liberalised India’s economy through his vision and determination, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
“This set the stage for India’s remarkable growth and emergence as a key regional and global player,” PM Wong added.
In his letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Dec 28, PM Wong said the relationship between Singapore and India also grew significantly under Dr Singh’s stewardship.
Dr Singh served as India’s prime minister between 2004 and 2014.
PM Wong referenced the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (Ceca) during Dr Singh’s tenure as prime minister.
“It was a milestone in our relations and laid the foundation for the strong economic partnership we enjoy today,” PM Wong said.
Entered into force in 2005, Ceca was the first comprehensive economic agreement between Singapore and a South Asian country.
PM Wong also said Dr Singh played an important role in strengthening India’s engagement with Asean.
“Under his leadership, India joined the East Asia Summit in 2005 and actively supported Asean’s efforts in building a stronger regional architecture.
“Our thoughts are with the people of India during this period of grief,” PM Wong said.
In a Facebook post on Dec 28, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he had known Dr Singh when they were both ministers of finance before becoming prime ministers of their respective countries.
“He liberalised and opened up the Indian economy as finance minister, and continued with further reforms upon becoming prime minister in 2004, resulting in a period of unprecedented economic growth which lifted millions of people out of poverty,” said SM Lee.
He added that he had met Dr Singh many times over the years, most recently in 2018, when Asean leaders visited New Delhi for Republic Day.
“I will always remember his warmth and kindness, as well as the friendship he had for Singapore.
“Dr Singh served his country with humility and integrity. I extend my deepest condolences to Dr Singh’s family and the people of India,” said SM Lee.
