China expresses deep condolences over Khaleda Zia’s death

China has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and current Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). In a condolence letter sent on Tuesday, 30 December, to Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed his heartfelt sympathies.

In the letter, Wang Yi stated, “I am deeply saddened to hear of her passing and extend my sincere condolences to you.” He highlighted Khaleda Zia’s long and distinguished political career, describing her as a senior stateswoman who maintained a close and friendly relationship with China and actively contributed to the development of bilateral ties between the two countries.

During her tenure as Prime Minister, Khaleda Zia played a crucial role in fostering a long-term partnership of friendship, equality, and mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Bangladesh. China praised her significant contributions to the advancement of bilateral relations and acknowledged her efforts in strengthening strategic collaboration across various sectors.

The letter further emphasized China’s commitment to continuing this legacy. It expressed China’s readiness to work alongside Bangladesh to deepen practical cooperation in multiple fields and advance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, building upon the long-standing friendship established by the senior leadership of both countries.

Khaleda Zia passed away at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. She was 80 years old and is remembered as the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, a trailblazer in national politics, and a prominent figure in the country’s modern history.

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Khaleda Zia’s passing marks the end of a remarkable political era in Bangladesh, and her legacy continues to resonate both domestically and internationally. China’s message of condolence underscores the enduring friendship and strategic partnership shared between the two nations.