Global condolences pour in for Khaleda Zia as nations pay tribute

The Indian and Pakistani high commissions, together with the US, German, and Canadian embassies, as well as the European Union in Bangladesh, shared condolence messages today (30 December) on their official Facebook and X pages, mourning the passing of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

These messages reflected the deep respect and grief of the international community, highlighting her political legacy, leadership, and enduring contributions to Bangladesh's democratic journey.

Indian High Commission shares Modi's condolence message

Indian High Commission shared Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message expressing deep shock, praising her development contributions and India-Bangladesh relations as Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister. He recalled their 2015 Dhaka meeting and prayed for her soul's peace.

Mamata Banerjee expresses grief

India's West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed condolences at the demise.

"Saddened by the demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and a prominent public leader. I extend my condolences to her family, friends and followers," said the Indian politician in a X post.

Pakistan leaders offer condolences

Pakistan High Commission circulated X posts from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, and President Asif Ali Zardari offering heartfelt condolences.

US embassy remembers Khaleda Zia's leadership

US Embassy Dhaka's Facebook page remembers Khaleda Zia for shaping Bangladesh's modern history and advancing national development through her leadership and conveys condolences.

German embassy honours Khaleda Zia's political legacy

German Embassy noted her meetings with Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer (2004) and President Christian Wulff (2011), honouring her contribution to national life and extending sympathies to her family, BNP, and Bangladeshis.

Canadian High Commission conveys condolences

High Commission of Canada posted sincere condolences, hoping her family finds strength and comfort in grief.

China's official letter to CA

Chinese Premier Li Qiang's letter to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, shared widely, called her a "veteran politician" and "old friend," crediting her for the Comprehensive Partnership and reaffirming bilateral ties.

European Union in Dhaka expresses condolences

The European Union in Bangladesh has expressed deep shock at the death of former Prime Minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on Tuesday.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the people of Bangladesh on the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia," read a statement of the European Union on its facebook page. 

Iran condoles death of Khaleda Zia

The Iranian Embassy in Dhaka today extended its sincere condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh, as well as to the leadership and members of the BNP, on the passing of Khaleda Zia.

In a condolence message, the embassy described Khaleda Zia as a prominent national leader who played a significant role in the political history of Bangladesh and made notable contributions to democratic governance and public life throughout her career.

During her tenure as prime minister, the embassy said, Bangladesh maintained constructive and friendly relations with Iran, based on mutual respect and cooperation.

It also conveyed its deepest sympathy to her family, including her son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, as well as her colleagues and supporters, and wished peace for her departed soul.

Nepal PM expresses condolences

Nepalese Prime Minister Sushila Karki has expressed sorrow over the death of Khaleda Zia, BNP chairperson and the first female prime minister of Bangladesh.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Begum Khaleda Zia, BNP chairperson and the first female prime minister of Bangladesh," she said in a message.

On behalf of the government and people of Nepal, the Nepalese prime minister extended her heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and the people of Bangladesh.

Khaleda Zia leaves behind a legacy of lifelong public service, with her enduring leadership marking a historic chapter in the democratic journey of her country, he said.

"As a true friend of Nepal, she will be remembered for her significant role in strengthening Nepal-Bangladesh relations. May her departed soul rest in eternal peace," said the Nepalese prime minister.

Rahul Gandhi expresses condolences

India's Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Khaleda Zia.

In a post on X, the Indian National Congress leader said, "Saddened by the passing of former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Begum Khaleda Zia. Over her long career in public life, she played a significant role in Bangladesh's political journey.

"My heartfelt condolences to her family, supporters, and the people of Bangladesh."