Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi to express condolences over the passing of Bangladesh National Party (BNP) chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Singh signed the condolence book and conveyed deep sorrow, extending sympathies to Khaleda Zia’s family and the people of Bangladesh.
Following Singh’s visit, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, welcomed Rajnath Singh at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. Hamidullah mentioned that Singh conveyed India’s condolences and paid tribute to the late Khaleda Zia during his visit.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar represented India at Khaleda Zia’s funeral in Dhaka. He conveyed the Indian government’s condolences to Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairperson of BNP and son of Khaleda Zia. Jaishankar also handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Rahman, expressing deepest condolences on behalf of India.
EAM Jaishankar acknowledged Khaleda Zia’s contributions to democracy and expressed optimism about strengthening India-Bangladesh relations post the upcoming elections. He highlighted the importance of Khaleda Zia’s vision and values in guiding the partnership between the two countries.
