Bangladesh has lost a true friend: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday expressed profound shock and sorrow at the death of former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee describing him as ‘a true friend’ of Bangladesh and a friend of her family.

The Prime Minister was deeply saddened at the demise of Pranab Mukherjee and she got emotional and nostalgic recalling many memories with him, said PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim.

Sheikh Hasina recalled his ‘outstanding’ and ‘unforgettable’ contribution to the 1971 Liberation War as a politician and real well-wisher. 

“I always recall with profound respect his invaluable contributions to our Liberation War,” she said.

She said Pranab Mukherjee always provided his support to her family while they were in exile in India after assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975.

“In such a bad time, he always enquired about my family and stood beside my younger sister Sheikh Rehana and us in any necessity. Pranab Mukherjee provided cooperation and courage even after our  return to Bangladesh,” she said.

“He (Pranab Mukherjee) is our guardian and family friend.

He always gave courage to us in any crisis,” the PM went on.

“With his death, India lost a wise and patriotic leader, while Bangladesh a close person,” she said.  

Terming Pranab Mukherjee a celebrated politician of this sub-continent, she said he will remain alive as glittering star in the politics of the sub-continent.

Sheikh Hasina prayed for salvation of the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.