The US envoy expressed the hope when he made a farewell call on Prime Minister Khaleda Zia at her office yesterday.

Thomas, who is going back to his country as executive secretary to the US secretary of state, hoped that the next general elections in Bangladesh would be free and fair.

He mentioned the visits of important and eminent personalities from the US to Bangladesh during his tenure. "They were well received and went back with better and positive views on Bangladesh," he said.

They have appreciated the advancement and the role of Bangladesh in the international arena, he added.

The US officials also lauded progress in telecommunications and the flourishing of electronic media in Bangladesh, which he said are appreciated by all.

The outgoing US envoy appreciated the development in different sectors, including the growth in GDP and foreign investment.

Referring to various development works, including the building of flyovers, he said the roads in Dhaka are now safe and cleaner.

"The US gives importance to the good relationship with Bangladesh," Thomas said, and hoped that the strengthening of ties between the two countries would continue.

He appreciated the role of Bangladesh in the campaign against international terrorism.

Assuring continued US cooperation in development, he said he will remember Bangladesh as a friend in his new position.

The outgoing ambassador also appreciated Bangladesh's role in checking human trafficking.

He thanked the prime minister and her government for the cooperation he received during his tenure.

The prime minister also noted that important visits had taken place during the outgoing ambassador's tenure. She wished all success in his new assignment.

"The firm commitment of the two countries towards consolidating democracy will lead to further strengthening of relationship," she hoped.

Prime minister's Principal Secretary Kamal Siddiqui was present during the meeting.

Thomas also made a farewell call on President Iajuddin Ahmed at Bangabhaban yesterday.

During the meeting, the president appreciated the contribution of the ambassador to fostering greater understanding and cooperation between the two countries during his tenure in Bangladesh.

He expressed the hope that the United States would continue to be a partner in Bangladesh's future endeavours.

The president hoped that the envoy would carry with him the fond memories of his stay in Bangladesh and remain a friend of Bangladesh in his next assignment as well.

He requested the outgoing envoy to convey his warm greetings to President George W Bush Jr.