Jaishankar hands over India’s condolence message to Tarique Rahman

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday conveyed India’s condolence message to BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman on the death of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, reflecting New Delhi’s respect for the veteran Bangladeshi leader.

Jaishankar met Tarique Rahman at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban and formally handed over the condolence message, according to a post shared on the BNP’s verified Facebook page.

“Neighbouring India has sent a condolence message expressing deep respect to Begum Khaleda Zia, hailing her as the “Mother of Democracy” and a “Symbol of Courage and Struggle,” an uncompromising leader committed to safeguarding independence and sovereignty,” read the Facebook post.

Earlier, the Indian external affairs minister arrived in Dhaka on a special flight at around 11:30am to attend the funeral of the former prime minister and BNP chairperson. 

He was received at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, officials of the Indian High Commission confirmed.