Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a condolence letter to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman over the demise of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, who was laid to rest beside her husband, late president Ziaur Rahman, at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in Dhaka on Wednesday.
Khaleda Zia passed away early Tuesday at Evercare Hospital at the age of 79 after suffering from multiple critical health complications.
In the condolence letter, Modi wrote that he was deeply saddened to learn of Khaleda Zia's passing.
"Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace," said the Indian PM in the letter.
He also recalled a meeting with Khaleda Zia in Dhaka in 2015.
He said she was a leader of rare resolve and conviction, and had the distinction of being the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh.
Khaleda Zia made many important contributions to the development of Bangladesh, as well as to the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations, Modi said.
While her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, her vision and legacy will endure, he said.
"I am confident that her ideals will be carried forward under your able leadership of the BNP, and will continue to serve as a guiding light to ensure a new beginning and the enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between India and Bangladesh," said Modi.
"I pray to the Almighty to grant you and your family the strength and fortitude to overcome this difficult time," added the Indian prime minister.
Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who represented the government and people of India at the funeral of Khaleda Zia, handed over the letter from Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman.