Khaleda Zia Passes Away at 80: PM Modi Condoles, Highlights Contributions to India-Bangladesh Relations

Dhaka / New Delhi — Begum Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and long-time chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness, drawing reactions from leaders across the region. 

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep condolences, recalling his interactions with Khaleda Zia and emphasizing her role in the history of bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh. 

In a public message on social media, Mr. Modi described himself as “deeply saddened” by her passing and remembered the meetings they shared, including a noted encounter in Dhaka in 2015 that underlined the evolving partnership between the two neighboring countries. 

He also paid tribute to Khaleda Zia’s legacy, noting that her contributions to India-Bangladesh relations will not be forgotten and could “continue to guide” the partnership between the nations. 

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first woman prime minister, served multiple terms in office and was a pivotal figure in her country’s political life. Her leadership spanned decades, shaping both internal politics and Bangladesh’s engagements abroad. 

Her death has sparked an outpouring of grief not only in Bangladesh, but also among foreign governments and diplomatic circles, with leaders from China and other countries issuing condolences and highlighting her role in strengthening international ties.

In his message, PM Modi also remembered the close cultural and historical bonds between India and Bangladesh, stressing that cooperation between the two nations remains vital for regional peace, development, and shared prosperity.

As Bangladesh mourns a towering political leader, tributes from around the world are reflecting on her complex and enduring impact on South Asian politics.