By The World Ambassador
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DHAKA — Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, arrived in Dhaka on Tuesday to offer condolences on the death of former Bangladesh prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Upon arrival, Sadiq was received by senior officials of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistan’s High Commissioner. Ahead of the funeral prayers, he met BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, son of the late leader, at the parliament building.
Conveying messages on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the parliament and people of Pakistan, Sadiq expressed deep sorrow over Zia’s passing. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the bereaved family, BNP leadership and the people of Bangladesh, and handed over a condolence letter from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Tarique Rahman.
Rahman thanked the Pakistani leadership and people for their support during the time of grief. Sadiq paid tribute to Khaleda Zia, recalling her close ties with Pakistan and her efforts to strengthen bilateral relations based on mutual respect and cooperation. Both sides reflected on the historical links between the two countries, noting that her vision could guide future engagement.
Later, the Speaker offered funeral prayers for the late leader.
In the evening, Sadiq called on Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, and extended condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh. Both leaders described Khaleda Zia as a towering political figure whose resilience and contributions played a significant role in Bangladesh’s democratic journey, earning her recognition worldwide. They also acknowledged her commitment to public service and her vision for regional peace and progress.
Professor Yunus thanked the Pakistani Speaker for his visit and solidarity, recalling recent interactions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and appreciating their messages of condolence.
