The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Donald Camp yesterday said the United States would welcome lifting of more restrictions on political parties and return to a civilian elected government in Bangladesh.

Camp, who held bilateral talks with Foreign Secretary Touhid Hossain at State Guest House Padma, told reporters that Washington is supportive of the caretaker government and its action plan to hold elections later this year.

Replying to a question, he said already some restrictions on political parties have been lifted and "I am sure there will be more, which will be welcome."

Camp, who arrived here earlier in the day on a two-day visit, avoided making any comment on lifting of the state of emergency that is in place for more than a year.

He said this would be an important year for this country as there is a commitment from the caretaker government to hold elections to return Bangladesh to a civilian elected government.

Asked about any US concerns regarding the current situation, the State Department official would not spell out the concerns, but said he would raise the concerns to individuals involved during his meetings.

Terming Bangladesh and United States as good friends, Camp said both the countries help each other in times of need.

He expressed happiness at the US humanitarian efforts to Bangladesh after the tragedy of Cyclone Sidr.

After nearly half an hour's meeting, Foreign Secretary Touhid Hossain said they had useful discussion covering basically bilateral issues including US assistance to reconstruction projects in post-Cyclone Sidr and trade matters.

"We had very useful and comprehensive discussion on certain other bilateral matters," he told reporters.

US Charge d' Affaires Geeta Pasi and senior officials of Bangladesh Foreign Ministry were present.

A US Embassy release said that during the meeting, Camp reiterated the US government support to the caretaker government and stressed the importance of implementation of the electoral roadmap.

Camp emphasised the importance of dialogue between the government, civil society, political parties, the private sector and international partners.

He commended the Bangladesh government on its swift and effective response to cyclone Sidr.

Camp reiterated the US government's commitment to providing assistance in the long-term reconstruction of the cyclone-affected areas.

He underscored the 'excellent' bilateral relationship between the two countries and discussed ways to further strengthen the relationship including in the areas of trade and investment.

Camp will meet government and political figures and representatives of civil society before he leaves Dhaka today (Monday).