US President Joe Biden expressed deep condolences following the passing of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who died on Thursday night at the age of 92. Recognized as a transformative leader and the architect of India’s economic liberalization, Singh served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014.

In a statement, President Biden noted, “Jill and I join the people of India in grieving the loss of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.” He lauded Singh’s strategic vision and political courage, stating that the current US-India cooperation would not have been possible without his leadership. Biden also highlighted Singh’s role in pivotal agreements, such as the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement and the formation of the first Quad with Indo-Pacific partners.

Describing Singh as “a true statesman” and “a kind and humble person,” Biden fondly recalled their meetings during Singh’s tenure, mentioning their interactions in 2008, 2009, and 2013. The US-India relationship, Biden noted, is one of the world’s most consequential, with the potential for greater progress as partners.

Singh’s legacy also includes his landmark 1991 reforms, which opened India’s economy to global markets, dismantling the Licence Raj. As Prime Minister, he introduced impactful legislations, including MGNREGA, the RTI Act, and the RTE Act. Known for his distinguished career as a bureaucrat, Singh also served as the Reserve Bank of India governor and received the Padma Vibhushan in 1987.