PM Modi is “deeply saddened” by Khaleda Zia’s passing and praises her contributions to India-Bangladesh relations

In response to the passing of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday recalled her prior contributions to India-Bangladesh relations. PM Modi expressed his “deep sadness” upon learning of the death of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote: “Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss.”

Additionally, he remarked that Khaleda Zia’s “important contributions” would always be recognized and highlighted her role in promoting diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and India.

One year after taking office as India’s prime minister, in 2015, PM Modi remembers meeting the leader of Bangladesh. “We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace,” PM Modi wrote.

After fighting an illness for days, Khaleda Zia, 80, passed away at around six in the morning on Tuesday, according to a statement released earlier today by her party, the BNP. Days after her son Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh following a 17-year exile in London, Zia, a significant player in the country’s politics, passed away.Khaleda Zia became Bangladesh’s first female prime minister in 1991 and held the position for a second time from 2001 to 2006.

Her competition with Sheikh Hasina was one of the most significant moments of her political career. Notably, Sheikh Hasina’s continued exile in India coincides with PM Modi’s high admiration for Khaleda Zia after her passing.