The Advisory Council, in a special meeting, has decided that the government will ensure uninterrupted treatment for BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia at the hospital and make arrangements to send her abroad if necessary.

The meeting was held today at the State Guest House Jamuna, chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud read out the government statement at a press briefing outside Jamuna after the meeting.

During the meeting, prayers were offered for the early recovery of Khaleda Zia — a three-time former prime minister and wife of a former president — and the nation was urged to pray for her as well.

For her security, travel convenience and status, the government has declared her a “very very important person (VVIP)”. All relevant agencies have been directed to implement this immediately, the statement read.

Khaleda Zia’s family and party have been informed of the decisions, Wahiduddin said.

He, however, did not take questions after the briefing, where Law Adviser Asif Nazrul was also present.