Global leaders, foreign missions in Bangladesh, and international organisations have expressed deep condolences over the demise of former prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
They highlighted her significant contributions to the development of Bangladesh, her uncompromising nature, and her strong relationships with them. Many mourned the loss of an unparalleled politician and expressed their grief through statements to the media or via official social media channels.
The United Nations (UN) in Bangladesh expressed deep condolences over her death. In its message, the UN said, "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 European Union in Bangladesh and the UK High Commission in Dhaka also extended heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and the people of Bangladesh.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) expressed condolences, saying, "The BIMSTEC secretariat extends its heartfelt condolences on the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former prime minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of BNP. May her blessed soul rest in eternal peace."
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, said he was deeply saddened by her death. "As the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh, her significant contributions to the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations, will always be remembered," he wrote. "I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership," he added.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Khaleda Zia's lifelong service to Bangladesh and its development leaves a lasting legacy. "Begum Zia was a committed friend of Pakistan. My government and the people of Pakistan stand with the people of Bangladesh in this moment of sorrow," he said. "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!"
The US Embassy in Dhaka wrote on its Facebook page that the United States extends its deepest condolences. "Mrs Zia played a pivotal role in shaping her country's modern history, and her leadership was instrumental in advancing Bangladesh's development," it said.
Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen sent a condolence letter to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, describing Khaleda Zia as a steadfast champion of freedom and a key figure in Bangladesh's political history.
He also said that Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi separately conveyed their condolences to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain.
The German Embassy in Dhaka said that during her long public career, Begum Zia played a significant role in shaping Bangladesh's political landscape. It recalled her engagement with Germany over the decades, including her meetings with German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer during his 2004 visit to Dhaka and with German President Christian Wulff during his 2011 state visit.
"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," it said.
The Embassy of Russia in Bangladesh said Russia will remember her with gratitude for the cordial relations maintained with the country during her three terms as prime minister.
The Embassy of Japan in Dhaka said, "During her tenure as prime minister, Her Excellency Begum Zia visited Japan twice, making invaluable contributions to the enduring friendship and cooperation between our nations."
Saddened by Khaleda Zia's death, Nepalese Prime Minister Sushila Karki said, "Begum Zia leaves behind a legacy of lifelong public service, with her enduring leadership marking a historic chapter in the democratic journey of her country. As a true friend of Nepal, she will be remembered for her significant role in strengthening Nepal-Bangladesh relations."
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote, "I am saddened by the demise of Bangladesh's former prime minister and one of its prominent leaders, Begum Khaleda Zia. I extend my condolences to her grieving family, friends, and political colleagues."
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