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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to represent India at the funeral of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. With her long political legacy and India-Bangladesh ties, how will her passing shape future diplomatic relations?
S Jaishankar to attend Khaleda Zia’s funeral
New Delhi: Amid ongoing diplomatic sensitivities, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent the Indian government at the funeral of former Bangladesh Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Dr Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Dhaka on 31 December 2025 to attend the final rites, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.
“The External Affairs Minister will represent the Government and people of India at the funeral of Begum Khaleda Zia,” the ministry said in a brief release.
Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister and first female head of government, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 80 after battling a prolonged illness. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) confirmed her death at 6 am while she was receiving treatment at Apollo Hospital in Dhaka.
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Zia had been admitted to the hospital on 23 November and remained under medical supervision for 36 days due to infections affecting her heart and lungs. Over the years, she had contended with multiple chronic health issues, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and complications related to her kidneys, lungs, heart, and eyes.
A team of medical specialists from Bangladesh, the UK, the US, China, and Australia, led by cardiologist Shahabuddin Talukder, oversaw her treatment. Earlier plans to transfer her abroad for advanced care were canceled as her condition was too fragile for travel. Just two days prior to her death, her personal physician described her health as “extremely critical.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over Khaleda Zia’s passing, recalling their meeting in Dhaka in 2015. He praised her contributions to Bangladesh’s development and the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations.
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In a post on X, Modi wrote: “Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May her soul rest in peace.”
He added, “As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her important contributions towards development and India-Bangladesh relations will always be remembered. We hope her vision and legacy continue to guide our partnership.”
Dr Jaishankar’s visit highlights India’s respect and longstanding ties with Bangladesh, even amid complex diplomatic circumstances. The External Affairs Minister is expected to participate in the state and ceremonial arrangements as part of India’s official delegation.
