, Dec. 30 -- Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said he is deeply saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the BNP and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

"Her lifelong service to Bangladesh and its growth and development leaves a lasting legacy," he said in a message.

Begum Zia was a committed friend of Pakistan, said the Pakistan Prime Minister.

"My Government and the people of Pakistan stand with the people of Bangladesh in this moment of sorrow," he said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and the people of Bangladesh during this difficult time. May Allah SWT bless her soul. Ameen!".

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from United News of Bangladesh....