Prime Minister's advisor on private industry and investment Salman F Rahman met Uzra Zeya, the US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, at the US Department of State in Washington DC on Friday.

They discussed a wide range of bilateral issues including further enhancing the existing excellent economic partnership between Bangladesh and the USA, a press release said.

Adviser Rahman and Under Secretary Zeya also discussed recent conflicts in the Middle East, Rohingya issue and Bangladesh’s election.

Uzra Zeya praised Bangladesh’s generosity for hosting over 1.2 million Rohingya population and assured continued US support for them.

On the election issue, both acknowledged that in democracy, the only means to changing the government is through elections. Adviser Rahman reiterated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's firm commitment to ensure that the upcoming elections are held in a free, fair and peaceful manner.

Under Secretary Zeya reaffirmed that the US does not support any particular political party, instead is keen to see the continuation of democracy in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Ambassador to the USA Muhammad Imran, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Afreen Akhter and senior officials of Bangladesh Embassy and US State Department were present at the meeting.