The envoy called on Education Minister Dr M Osman Farruk at his secretariat office. They held "wide-ranging discussion" on the country's present political situation, officials said.

Harry hoped that democratic environment would be maintained in Bangladesh through the restoration of "normalcy and stability" in the country.

The minister informed the envoy about the country's existing political condition, particularly the August 21 incident, and the measures taken by the government.

Thomas expressed satisfaction at the steps and conveyed to the minister his government's support to the activities of Bangladesh government.

Dr Osman Farruk drew attention of the ambassador to the visa complexity facing the US-going Bangladeshi students and officials in pursuit of higher studies.

Harry Thomas assured the education minister of steps to solve the problem by October.