Desk Correspondent , Dhaka - External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is set to travel to Dhaka on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, to attend the funeral of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Representing the Government and people of India, Jaishankar’s visit underscores the historical significance of the late leader, who passed away early Tuesday morning at the age of 80. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the visit in a statement, emphasizing the importance of her legacy in shaping the democratic journey of Bangladesh and its bilateral relations with India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep condolences earlier on Tuesday, stating he was "deeply saddened" by the loss of the BNP Chairperson. Recalling his warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015, the Prime Minister highlighted her vast contributions to the development of Bangladesh. India’s participation in the state funeral is seen as a gesture of solidarity during this period of national mourning, as the neighboring country prepares to bid farewell to its first female Prime Minister.

Khaleda Zia’s funeral is scheduled to be held in Dhaka on Wednesday, where she will be laid to rest with full state honors beside her late husband, President Ziaur Rahman. The visit by EAM Jaishankar comes at a significant time, as the country navigates a transition following the political shifts of late 2024. As global leaders continue to send messages of sympathy, India's presence at the final rites reaffirms the enduring partnership and shared history between the two nations during this historic transition.