The United States expressed happiness over the present government's development activities on poverty alleviation, economic progress and maintaining socio-economic stability in the country.

US Ambassador in Bangladesh James F Moriarty, just back from the US State Department, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the latter's office on Thursday and conveyed his government's observations.

Moriarty said the US government is hopeful that, under the able leadership of Sheikh Hasina, the people of Bangladesh would be able to attain the cherished development and prosperity through implementing the development agenda.

”The present government is working with outstanding skill to attain the country's food security,” the diplomat was quoted as saying during the meeting.

Besides, he said, the role of the government in ensuring women empowerment has also been appreciated by the US State Department.

In reply, Sheikh Hasina said, “The present government strongly believes that freeing people from the curse of poverty is the prime step towards upholding human rights of the people.”

Hasina sought continued US support and assistance for expediting socio-economic development of the country.

She also called for US investment in larger volumes in various development sectors of Bangladesh.

Deputy Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Mahbubul Hoque Shakil briefed newsmen after the meeting.