Replying to a question, he categorically told reporters that none from any foreign countries have been called or been appointed to the investigation process, but Bangladesh would definitely seek foreign assistance from friendly countries if required.

"Our law enforcers are carrying out the investigation and the hunt and the government is capable of unearthing the August 17 incident. Bangladesh hasn't made any request to anyone," he added.

However, he said the police have updated the list of criminals, which was earlier given to Interpol.

"We have received a number of offers of assistance from friendly countries to aid the investigation process of August 17 bomb blasts," Zahirul Haque, director general (DG) of external publicity wing of the foreign ministry, told reporters at a briefing.

When asked about foreign links with the bomb blasts, he said the law enforcement agencies are busy in nabbing the culprits and investigating into the matter of foreign links.

"We cannot blame any country without being certain," he added.

On another query about Reuters

report of Bangladesh's request to India and Myanmar to hunt down Islamist militants who may have fled there, the DG said, "I am not aware of any such requests made so directly."

Countries usually take precautionary measures if any untoward incident takes place in neighbouring countries, so that criminals cannot enter their country afterwards, he added.

He said most of the arrested people belong to Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and eight of them so far confessed about their direct involvement with the August 17 bomb blasts.

Answering a question about the killing of an Indian businessman in Dhaka, he said this matter is entirely a police affair.

When asked the DG denied that Bangladesh has restricted visa for Indian and Pakistani nationals after the bomb blasts.

He said preparations are going on in full swing for the November 12-13 Saarc summit in Dhaka and there is no hint of further deferment. Host Bangladesh will ensure foolproof security for the guests during the Saarc summit, he added.