BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. File Photo

DHAKA, Dec 31, 2025 (BSS) - China today said the contributions of former Prime Minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia to strengthening Bangladesh-China friendship and bilateral relations would be remembered forever.

"Khaleda Zia is an old and dear friend of Chinese people and long committed to China-Bangladesh friendship," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said in Beijing. 

He said China expresses deep condolences over the passing of Khaleda Zia and heartfelt sympathies to the interim government of Bangladesh and to Khaleda Zia's family.

While in office as prime minister of Bangladesh, the spokesperson said, Khaleda Zia made active efforts to develop Bangladesh-China ties, during which the two countries established a comprehensive partnership of cooperation featuring long-term friendship, equality and mutual benefit.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen attended the funeral of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka today along with other foreign dignitaries.