He also reiterated the commitment of government to upholding the freedom of media at a meeting with the visiting delegation of New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) at his office in the city.

The government never interfered in the work of the press and private broadcasting channels, he said referring to news items published in the newspapers during the stay of the delegation in Bangladesh.

"You might have already read our newspapers and noticed how much freedom the media are enjoying in Bangladesh," he said.

Tariqul said eight journalists were killed and many others injured during 1996-2001. He said most of the journalists were killed in the south-western bordering areas where some outlawed parties are active.

The government has taken all-out measures for investigation of the cases and trial of the culprits, he said. The government will not show any mercy to those culprits responsible for the killings. "There is no impunity in this country," he added.

He said the government has been making all-out efforts to curb criminal activities but it is not getting cooperation from the opposition.

Tariqul said the administration at all levels have been directed to ensure security of journalists in performing their professional duties. He said "we hope you would have cordial and meaningful exchanges with your fellow professionals here where we do highly respect the right of expression and free flow of information."

The minister said the government is very open to foreign journalists.

CPJ delegation leader Ann Cooper said Bangladesh has a vibrant and free print and electronic media. She hoped that the government would take necessary measures to ensure security of journalists.