UN Secretary General António Guterres has expressed profound shock and sorrow at the death of three-time former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. 

“I was saddened to learn of the passing of Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh,” the UN Secretary General wrote to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in a message dated on January 2. 

The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing released the message today. 

“On behalf of the United Nations, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of Bangladesh and to her family,” Guterres said, adding, as the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia occupies a distinguished place in the political history of the nation, shaped by many years of public service and leadership. 

“At this time of mourning, I wish to convey my deepest sympathy to her family and loved ones, as well as to the Government and the people of Bangladesh,” the UN António Guterres said. 

“Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration,” he added. 

Begum Khaleda Zia, widely regarded as an uncompromising leader for democracy in Bangladesh, breathed her last on December 30 last year at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the city. 

She was laid to eternal rest with full state honour beside her husband Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's grave at Zia Udyan in the capital on December 31.