Several top South Asian dignitaries are arriving in Dhaka today to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who passed away on Monday(December 30) at the age of 80.

India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent New Delhi, while Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq will attend on behalf of Islamabad, according to official statements from both governments. Nepalese Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma is also scheduled to be present, accompanied by senior officials.

Their participation highlights regional recognition of Khaleda Zia’s political legacy and her role in fostering Bangladesh’s ties with neighbouring nations during her three terms as prime minister.

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female prime minister and one of the most prominent figures in the country’s post-independence politics, died while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Following her death, world leaders and diplomats have extended condolences, remembering her as a steadfast and influential leader in South Asian politics.

BOB Post