The United States has urged Bangladesh to take further steps to restore democracy.
The country has been under a state of emergency since January when the interim government took over after months of political unrest. The government says it will hold elections later next year after completing a campaign against violence and corruption.
During a visit to Bangladesh Tuesday, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs John Gastright congratulated the election commission for the progress they have made over the last nine months. He said the U.S. government is looking forward to seeing additional steps taken towards democracy as soon as possible.
Earlier this month, the country's interim government lifted a ban on indoor political activities to allow the parties to prepare for elections this year.
More than 170 political leaders have been detained in a drive to stamp out corruption.
Amir Khasru has more on the story.
