World leaders mourn death of Khaleda Zia
World leaders and international partners have expressed condolences on the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), who died on Tuesday morning at the age of 80.
The United States extended its deepest condolences, stating that Begum Zia played a pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh's modern history and that her leadership contributed to the country's development.
The European Union also expressed deep shock, extending condolences to the people of Bangladesh in a statement issued on Tuesday.
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In a separate statement, the German Embassy said Begum Zia played a significant role in Bangladesh's political landscape. Germany recalled its long engagement with her, including meetings with former German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer in 2004 and former German President Christian Wulff in 2011. Germany extended sympathy to her family, party and the people of Bangladesh and reaffirmed its commitment to bilateral friendship.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang described Begum Zia as a veteran politician and an old friend of the Chinese people. In a condolence message sent to Muhammad Yunus, Li stated that Begum Zia played an important role in advancing China–Bangladesh relations and that her contributions to bilateral cooperation would be remembered. He reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to strengthening ties with Dhaka.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, expressed sorrow over her passing, stating that her contributions to Bangladesh's development and to India–Bangladesh relations would always be remembered. He recalled his meeting with Begum Zia in 2015 and extended condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh.
From Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Begum Zia as a committed friend of Pakistan and said her lifelong service left a lasting legacy. President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed condolences, stating that her leadership and services would be remembered with respect. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar similarly conveyed sympathy.
Begum Khaleda Zia, a three-time former prime minister and the first woman to hold the office in Bangladesh, died while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital, Dhaka.
