Diplomatic Correspondent: Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of Pakistan`s National Assembly, arrived in Dhaka today to offer condolences on the passing away of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister and Chairperson of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

 

Upon arrival, Sadiq was received by senior officials of Bangladesh`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Pakistan`s High Commissioner. He met with Tarique Rahman, son of Begum Zia and Acting Chairman of BNP, at the Parliament building, conveying condolences from Pakistan`s President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and other dignitaries.

 

Sadiq reaffirmed Pakistan`s solidarity with BNP leaders and Bangladesh`s people, handing over a condolence letter from Prime Minister Sharif to Tarique Rahman. He praised Begum Zia`s commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Bangladesh ties and recalled historical affinities between the nations.

 

Sadiq offered funeral prayers for Begum Zia and met with Bangladesh`s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, discussing her contributions to democracy and regional progress. Both leaders appreciated her vision for peace and connectivity.

 

The visit underscores Pakistan`s support for Bangladesh during this mourning period.