India Expresses Condolences at Khaleda Zia's Funeral in Dhaka

Jaishankar Delivers Modi's Message of Condolence

Dhaka, Dec 31: On Wednesday, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar presented a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman, a leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), during the funeral of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, attended by thousands.

Upon his arrival in Dhaka, Jaishankar met with Rahman, who is the acting chairman of the BNP and Khaleda Zia's eldest son, to express India's heartfelt condolences regarding the passing of the prominent political figure who influenced Bangladesh's politics for over thirty years.

Khaleda Zia passed away on Tuesday after a long illness, and Jaishankar is representing India at her funeral.

"I handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister @narendramodi and conveyed our deepest condolences on behalf of the Indian government and its people," Jaishankar shared on social media.

"I expressed my belief that Begum Khaleda Zia's vision and principles will continue to shape our partnership," he added.

Prime Minister Modi also expressed his sorrow over Zia's death, reminiscing about their meeting during his visit to Dhaka in 2015.

"I am deeply saddened to hear about the demise of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty provide her family with the strength to endure this profound loss," Modi stated on social media.

"I fondly remember my meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace," he remarked.

Jaishankar's trip to Dhaka occurs during a period of strained relations between India and Bangladesh, which have faced challenges since the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus took office.

India has voiced concerns regarding the treatment of minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.