Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, visited the Indian High Commission in Singapore to sign a condolence book in memory of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Balakrishnan lauded Singh as an ’eminent statesman’ who served India with notable humility and integrity, strengthening ties between the two nations. He also reminisced about Singh’s interaction with former Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong through an old photograph.

In a social media post, Balakrishnan reiterated his admiration, stating, ‘Manmohan Singh was an eminent statesman who served his country with humility and integrity. He also strengthened India-Singapore ties. Our thoughts are with Dr. Singh’s family and the people of India during this period of loss.’ The Indian High Commission in Singapore expressed gratitude towards Balakrishnan for his gesture.

Responding to the post, the Indian High Commission in Singapore said, ‘We sincerely appreciate Hon’ble Minister for Foreign Affairs of #Singapore @VivianBala for visiting the @HCI_Singapore to sign the Condolence Book opened in memory of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India.’ Singh aged 92, died due to age-related medical issues in Delhi on December 26 and was cremated with full state honors on December 28 at Nigambodh Ghat, Delhi.

Top Indian leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, paid their last respects. Congress officials Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi also attended the ceremony, honoring Singh’s legacy.

Singh’s political career spanned decades, with a pivotal role as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, where he led economic reforms that reshaped India’s economy. From 2004 to 2014, he served as the Prime Minister, guiding India through economic crises and modernization. His tenure ended in 2014 when succeeded by Narendra Modi. Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)