S Jaishankar Arrives In Dhaka To Represent India At Khaleda Zia’s Funeral

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday to represent India at the funeral of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, marking a moment of solemn diplomacy and regional respect.

During his visit, EAM Jaishankar personally conveyed the condolences of the Government and people of India to the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Tarique Rahman. He handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Upon arrival, EAM Jaishankar met Tarique Rahman and expressed India’s deep sympathy over the loss of Khaleda Zia, a towering political figure in Bangladesh’s history.

In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar stated that he conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of India. He expressed confidence that Begum Khaleda Zia’s vision would continue to guide the evolution of India-Bangladesh relations. He added that her values would remain relevant for the future of bilateral ties.

EAM Jaishankar acknowledged Khaleda Zia’s contribution to democratic politics in Bangladesh. He voiced optimism about strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted the opportunities arising after the country’s forthcoming democratic transition.

Jaishankar underlined India’s commitment to nurturing a stable, cooperative and forward-looking partnership with Bangladesh, anchored in mutual respect and shared regional interests.

Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, also shared details of the meeting on X. He noted that EAM Jaishankar recognised Khaleda Zia’s role in Bangladesh’s democratic life.

He stated that EAM Jaishankar expressed confidence in strengthening India-Bangladesh ties. Riaz Hamidullah linked this optimism to the upcoming elections scheduled for February 2026.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Khaleda Zia. He remembered her as a historic leader whose contributions to Bangladesh and to bilateral relations with India would endure.

PM Modi conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Bangladesh. The message reflected the importance India attaches to its close neighbour and long-standing partner.

Khaleda Zia’s Passing and Funeral Arrangements

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister and a three-time head of government, passed away early Tuesday morning after a prolonged illness.

She was 80 years old. Doctors admitted her to Evercare Hospital in Dhaka on November 23 after she developed severe complications affecting her heart and lungs.

Medical teams closely monitored her condition as it deteriorated. Reports confirmed that she also battled pneumonia during her final days.

She remained under intensive medical care for more than a month. As Bangladesh mourns, thousands of citizens have gathered at Manik Mia Avenue near the Parliament Complex to pay their final respects.

Authorities have deployed 27 platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh to ensure security and manage the large crowds.

Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

EAM Jaishankar’s presence in Dhaka underscores India’s respect for Bangladesh’s democratic legacy. It signals New Delhi’s intent to stand with its neighbour during moments of national grief.

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