New Delhi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday visited the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi to pay tribute to former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. During the visit, he signed the Condolence Book and expressed India’s sorrow over her passing. Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah welcomed Singh and highlighted India’s condolences on social media. Singh also shared a post, offering thoughts for Zia’s family and the people of Bangladesh.

The tributes come as Bangladesh continues to mourn the veteran leader. On Wednesday, thousands gathered at the Namaz-e-Janaza held at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban to offer their final respects. The funeral prayer was led by the khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, with BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan supervising proceedings. Khaleda Zia was laid to rest beside her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

Her passing drew attention from across South Asia, with multiple countries sending senior officials to Dhaka. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also attended the funeral, demonstrating India’s support during the period of mourning.

Earlier, Acting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman thanked supporters, government officials, and visiting dignitaries who attended the funeral, expressing gratitude for their presence during the family’s time of loss.

High Commissioner Hamidullah expressed optimism about the future of India–Bangladesh ties, noting discussions with Rahman and highlighting opportunities for cooperation based on shared interests, pragmatism, and mutual interdependence.

Singh’s visit underscores India’s engagement with Bangladesh during the nation’s period of mourning and reflects the deep historical and diplomatic ties between the two countries.