Leaders across the world have expressed deep sorrow over the death of three-time former prime minister of Bangladesh and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.
India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over Khaleda Zia’s death.
In a post on X, he noted “As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia’s important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations, will always be remembered.”
“I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership. May her soul rest in peace,” he wrote.
China
Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang conveyed his condolence in a message, saying Khaleda Zia was a veteran politician of Bangladesh and an old friend of the Chinese people. During her tenure as prime minister, a comprehensive cooperative partnership based on long-term friendship, equality, and mutual benefit was established between China and Bangladesh, which significantly advanced bilateral relations.
Highlighting Khaleda Zia’s important contributions to strengthening China–Bangladesh relations, Li Qiang said her role in deepening bilateral ties is highly appreciated by the Chinese side.
Chinese Foreign Minister Yao Wen also sent special messages to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Adviser for Foreign Affairs Md Touhid Hossain. The message noted that Khaleda Zia had long been a “symbol” of Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations, inspiring millions of people through her firm leadership. She was also a dear friend of the Chinese people, and her contributions have left a lasting imprint on bilateral relations.
Pakistan
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he is deeply saddened by the passing of Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of BNP and former prime minister of Bangladesh.
“Her lifelong service to Bangladesh and its growth and development leaves a lasting legacy,” he said in a message.
Khaleda Zia was a committed friend of Pakistan, said the Pakistan Prime Minister.
“My Government and the people of Pakistan stand with the people of Bangladesh in this moment of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and the people of Bangladesh during this difficult time. May Allah SWT bless her soul. Ameen!”.
Nepal
In a message, Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Begum Khaleda Zia, BNP chairperson and the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh.”
Khaleda Zia left behind a legacy of lifelong public service, with her enduring leadership marking a historic chapter in the democratic journey of her country, she 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.
United States
The United States Embassy extend deepest condolences on the passing of Khaleda Zia.
In a post on X, US stated “Mrs Zia played a pivotal role in shaping her country’s modern history, and her leadership was instrumental in advancing Bangladesh’s development.”
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom in a condolence message, the British High Commission in Bangladesh said, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former prime minister of Bangladesh.”
The High Commission also extended its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and the people of Bangladesh at this very sad time.
France
France said “Throughout her long public career, Begum Zia played an important role in shaping Bangladesh’s national life. At this time of mourning, France extends its thoughts to her family, her party, and the people of Bangladesh. Her legacy will be remembered.”
Germany
The German Embassy also expressed its deepest condolences. Their statement read, “In her long public career, Begum Zia played a significant role in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape.
“Germany recalls its engagement with her over the decades, including her meeting with German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer during his 2004 visit to Dhaka, as well as her meeting with German President Christian Wulff during his state visit in 2011. She also engaged in other high-level meetings with senior German representatives over the years.”
It also stated, “At this moment of loss, Germany honours her contribution to national life and extends its sympathy to her family, her party, and the people of Bangladesh. Germany remains committed to the enduring friendship between our two countries. May she rest in peace.”
Canada
Canadian High Commission in Bangladesh also mourned saying, “Its sincere condolences to the family and the people of Bangladesh after the death of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Canada hopes her family can find strength and comfort during this difficult time.”
Iran
The Iranian Embassy in Dhaka extended its sincere condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh, as well as to the leadership and members of BNP, on the passing of former prime minister 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.
United Nations
In a condolence message, the UN in Bangladesh said it “expresses its deepest condolences following the passing of former prime minister of Bangladesh, Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia.”
“On this sad occasion, the United Nations expresses its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the honourable former Prime Minister and reaffirms its solidarity with the government and people of Bangladesh,” the message added.
European Union
The European Union (EU) expressed condolence saying “We extend our deepest condolences to the people of Bangladesh on the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia.”
