Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka Vijitha Herath arrived in Dhaka today to attend funeral of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, representing Government of Sri Lanka.

Herath reached Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 1 pm this afternoon. Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Bangladesh and high officials from Ministry of Foreign Affairs received him at airport, Spokesperson of Sri Lankan High Commission in Dhaka confirmed.

Foreign Minister proceeded directly from airport to join funeral ceremony without delay.

Funeral ceremony is scheduled at Manik Mia Avenue at 2 pm in Dhaka. Foreign dignitaries, political leaders and representatives from various countries are expected to attend the service.

Flight Lt Masud, spokesperson of HSIA, confirmed the arrival time of Sri Lankan delegation.

Khaleda Zia served as Bangladesh's first female prime minister and led BNP for decades. Her death has drawn international attention with several nations sending representatives to pay respects.

Sri Lanka's decision to send its Foreign Minister demonstrates strong bilateral relations between two South Asian neighbours. Herath's presence represents highest-level diplomatic gesture from Colombo for the funeral.

Ceremony at Manik Mia Avenue will see gathering of domestic and international dignitaries honouring former prime minister's legacy.