A true friend of Bangladesh: PM condoles death of Pranab Mukherjee
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today expressed deep shock and sorrow at former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee's death and called him a "true friend" to Bangladesh and a guardian-like figure for her family.
"The news of Mr Pranab Mukherjee's demise deeply saddened her…she became emotional and nostalgic as she reminisced her many memories with him," PM's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim told BSS.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Sheikh Hasina, he said, also recalled Pranab's "outstanding and unforgettable" contributions to the country's 1971 Liberation War as both a politician and the country's well-wisher.
"I always recall with profound respect his invaluable contributions to our Liberation War," she said, also terming him a celebrated politician of the sub-continent.
The premier said Mukherjee always extended his cooperation to her family when they were in exile in India following the August 15, 1975 killing of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Pranab Mukherjee always enquired about the Sheikh family and stood beside them during their bad times, PM Sheikh Hasina said.
Sheikh Hasina said she also recieved Mukherjee's cooperation and encouragement even after her return to Bangladesh.
"He (Pranab Mukherjee) is our guardian and family friend and he always provided courage to us during any crisis," she said.
The prime minister said with Mukherjee's demise, India has lost a learned and patriotic leader and Bangladesh has lost a dear friend.
"He (Pranab Mukherjee) will remain alive as a glittering star in the politics of the subcontinent," she said.
Sheikh Hasina prayed for the salvation of the departed soul and conveyed profound sympathy to the bereaved family members.
Bangladesh declares one day mourning on Wednesday
The government has announced one day National mourning on Wednesday, September 2, 2020 in honour of the death of former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee.
The national flag will be flown half- mast on that day, Principal Information Officer said this evening.
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