External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Tarique Rahman, acting BNP chairperson and son of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia, in Dhaka on Wednesday, extending India’s condolences over her recent passing.
Jaishankar also handed a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman and expressed confidence that Begum Khaleda Zia’s vision and values would guide the development of bilateral partnership.
Jaishankar is in Dhaka to attend the funeral of Khaleda Zia, who passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. The funeral is scheduled to be held at 2 pm today on Manik Mia Avenue at the South Plaza of Bangladesh’s National Parliament Building.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “On arrival in Dhaka, met with Mr Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of BNP and son of former PM of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia. Handed over to him a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Conveyed deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India. Expressed confidence that Begum Khaleda Zia’s vision and values will guide the development of our partnership.”
Khaleda Zia Funeral
Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female prime minister, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. A prominent figure in the country’s politics for decades, she served three terms as prime minister and was instrumental in restoring democracy after years of military rule.
Her funeral prayer is scheduled for 2 pm today on Manik Mia Avenue at the South Plaza of Bangladesh’s National Parliament Building. Large crowds have already gathered to offer the Namaz-e-Janaza, with millions of mourners expected to attend.
Chief Adviser of the interim government Muhammad Yunus, along with other dignitaries, is likely to be present at the ceremony.
After the prayers, Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest next to her husband, former president Ziaur Rahman, at his mausoleum in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
Security has been significantly heightened for the event, with over 10,000 police and Armed Police Battalion personnel deployed and army members stationed at key locations, according to The Daily Star.
