Rajnath recalls Khaleda’s contribution to cement ties
Staff Reporter :
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday visited the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi to express his condolences following the passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, recalling her contribution to cement bilateral ties.
Singh signed the Condolence Book, conveying his sorrow over the death of the influential leader and BNP Chairperson.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Singh wrote, “Went to the High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi. Signed the Condolence Book expressing our profound sorrow at the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Our thoughts are with her family and the people of Bangladesh.”
“Sincerest condolences on behalf of the government and the people of India, at the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Her notable contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh ties will always be remembered,” Singh wrote on Condolence Book.
Singh’s visit comes at a time when the relationship between Bangladesh and India has been marked by tense diplomatic exchanges, especially with the interim government in power in Dhaka.
Although the Indian government’s expression of sympathy was seen as a diplomatic gesture, the current political climate between the two nations has been far from smooth.
This visit comes in the wake of recent bilateral strains, compounded by the controversial handling of protests in Bangladesh and the ongoing political standoff between major parties.
The visit also follows the attack on the Delhi High Commission in December last year, which had sparked widespread concern about the security of foreign diplomatic missions in India.
The incident, along with other diplomatic tensions, has added complexity to the bilateral ties.
However, Singh’s presence at the High Commission has been seen as a symbol of respect for the late Khaleda Zia’s legacy and the enduring ties between the people of Bangladesh and India.
Following Defence Minister visit to Bangladesh High Commission, Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah in a post on X wrote, “Honoured to welcome Defense Minister at BDHC in Delhi as he conveyed condolences of India and paid homage to former Prime Minister and Chairperson (late) Begum Khaleda Zia.”
In a separate post, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed his gratitude to the public and dignitaries who paid their respects to his mother, Begum Khaleda Zia.
“I am deeply moved by the outpouring of love from so many friends, neighbours, well-wishers, and families who came in their millions to honour her life and legacy. Seeing you all here, standing with our family through these most difficult hours, reminded me of something very precious: that she was not only a mother to me, but in many ways a mother of this nation,” he wrote.
Rahman also extended his heartfelt thanks to the senior dignitaries from across South Asia who visited to pay tribute, despite the tense political environment.
“I also wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the senior dignitaries of countries from the South Asian region who came here personally, and to those countries, diplomats and partners who shared their condolences with the family and party, with their deep respect and sympathy. Your gesture and condolence have touched our hearts profoundly,” Rahman stated.
As India and Bangladesh are navigating these complex times, Singh’s visit to the Bangladesh High Commission serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy in maintaining ties, even amid political uncertainties.