Dhaka, Jan 01 (V7N) — Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar departed Bangladesh on Wednesday evening via a special Indian Air Force flight, concluding a short visit to express condolences following the death of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

Jaishankar had arrived in Dhaka earlier on Wednesday around 11:30 am on a special flight. Upon his arrival at Bangladesh Air Force Bashar Base, he was welcomed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary (Multilateral and Consular Affairs) M. Farhad Hossain. During his brief stay, he conveyed India’s condolences to the bereaved family and delivered a special message from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to officials from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Jaishankar departed Dhaka at 5:00 pm on the same day. During his short visit, he met with BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and expressed deep respect and sympathy for Khaleda Zia. He handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister Modi on behalf of the Government of India and the Indian people, offering heartfelt condolences.

In addition to political engagements, Jaishankar held meetings with key Bangladeshi officials, including Dr. Asif Nazrul, Advisor on Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs to the Interim Government, and Dr. Khalilur Rahman, National Security Advisor to the Chief Adviser.

He also exchanged courtesies with several South Asian ministers visiting Dhaka to pay tribute, including Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. The visit underscored India’s respect and recognition of Khaleda Zia’s role as a significant national and regional leader.

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