New Delhi, 30 December (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her demise as an irreparable loss to the neighbouring nation.

In a condolence message shared on his official account on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister conveyed heartfelt sympathies to Begum Zia’s family and to the people of Bangladesh. “May the Almighty grant her family the strength to endure this difficult time,” he said.Recalling her historic tenure as Bangladesh’s first woman prime minister, Prime Minister Modi noted that Begum Khaleda Zia played a pivotal role in shaping the political and developmental landscape of her country. He added that her contributions towards strengthening India–Bangladesh relations would always be remembered with respect.Modi also reminisced about his meeting with Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka in 2015, describing it as a memorable interaction that reflected her vision for regional cooperation. “Her legacy and foresight will continue to guide the partnership between our two nations,” he said, praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

According to reports from Dhaka, Begum Khaleda Zia had been ailing for an extended period before her demise on Sunday night, following complications related to her long-standing health issues. She was 80.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar