Former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga has extended her condolences to the family, colleagues, and supporters of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia following her passing.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Kumaratunga described Zia as “a towering figure in the political life of Bangladesh and a stateswoman of remarkable resilience and courage.”
She highlighted Zia’s pioneering role as one of the first women to lead a South Asian nation and her contributions to promoting greater participation of women in governance across the region.
Kumaratunga recalled her personal experience working with Zia on bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, as well as on regional issues during her tenure as chair of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
She praised Zia’s “charm and unfailing courage in the face of daunting challenges.”
The former president highlighted Zia’s role in strengthening democratic institutions, advancing socio-economic development, and representing the aspirations of millions of Bangladeshis.
She also expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh in mourning the loss of “a historic leader.”
Leave your comments
Login to post a comment
Post comment as a guest