Begum Khaleda Zia, the first female prime minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has passed away at the age of 80. In response, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound sorrow, describing her as a “committed and sincere friend” of Pakistan.
In an official statement, PM Shehbaz extended heartfelt condolences to Khaleda Zia’s family and the people of Bangladesh. He noted that both the government and citizens of Pakistan stand in solidarity with Bangladesh during this period of grief. He added that her contributions to fostering relations between the two countries would be long remembered and prayed for her eternal peace.
Khaleda Zia made history as Bangladesh’s first female prime minister, serving two terms from 1991 to 1996 and 2001 to 2006. She assumed leadership of the BNP following the assassination of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, and became a central figure in Bangladesh’s political and democratic landscape for decades.
Her tenure is particularly noted for reforms in the education sector, including making primary education free and compulsory, reflecting her commitment to social development.
News of her passing has prompted widespread mourning across Bangladesh, with political leaders globally expressing their condolences and tributes to the veteran stateswoman. Khaleda Zia’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in politics and her role in shaping Bangladesh’s governance and bilateral relations with Pakistan remain widely acknowledged.
PM Shehbaz’s tribute underscores the enduring diplomatic and personal ties between Pakistan and Khaleda Zia, honoring her dedication, leadership, and the historical significance of her contributions both within Bangladesh and in regional relations.
