India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar represented the Government of India at the state funeral of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in Dhaka, underlining New Delhi’s respect for Bangladesh’s political leadership and its commitment to strong bilateral ties with the neighbouring country.

During the event, Jaishankar was seen briefly exchanging greetings with Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, a routine diplomatic courtesy that took place in the presence of several regional leaders and dignitaries. Indian official sources clarified that the interaction was limited to a formal greeting and did not involve any discussion or bilateral engagement.

However, soon after visuals of the exchange surfaced online, sections of social media attempted to project the moment as a significant diplomatic meeting between India and Pakistan. These claims were described by informed sources as misleading and factually incorrect, stressing that no talks, negotiations or deliberations took place between the two leaders.

Jaishankar’s visit to Dhaka was solely focused on conveying India’s condolences on the passing of Khaleda Zia, one of Bangladesh’s most prominent political figures and a former prime minister. He also met members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party leadership and conveyed a personal message of condolence from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the bereaved family.

Officials in New Delhi emphasised that participation in such international events often brings together leaders from multiple countries, where brief exchanges of greetings are part of established diplomatic protocol and should not be misconstrued as policy shifts or renewed engagements.

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India has consistently maintained that its foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning Pakistan, are guided by national interest, security considerations and clear principles. In this context, authorities reiterated that the courtesy exchange in Dhaka does not signal any change in India’s stance or approach.

The Government of India also highlighted the importance of responsible reporting and urged the public to rely on verified information, cautioning against drawing conclusions from isolated visuals circulated without context.

Jaishankar’s presence at the funeral reaffirmed India’s close people-to-people ties with Bangladesh and its respect for the country’s political history, while New Delhi continues to prioritise stability, transparency and clarity in its diplomatic engagements across the region.