In separate post-deployment reactions to the news agency, they regretted stalling negotiations to break the pre-election political impasse and urged the parties to continue efforts to find a solution to the deadlock. They would also monitor the deployment.

A spokesman for the US embassy here said, "We regret that negotiations to break the political impasse have stalled. We hope the army deployment will not undermine efforts to create a positive election environment."

He said, "In the near future, we assume the government will fully explain the army's mission and its rules of engagement, and take action to ensure that the army is seen acting in a nonpartisan manner."

A spokeswoman for the British High Commission hoped the army deployment will be temporary and made only in support of legitimate civil authorities.

"We will monitor the deployment and trust that military personnel will perform their duties impartially and with due respect for human rights and the rule of law," she said.

Canadian High Commissioner Barbara Richardson also said they were monitoring the situation and urged all parties to continue their efforts to find a solution to the current impasse.

"Dialogue is the only means to ensure democracy, peace and security, not only today but also for the future," she said.

The top diplomat from the North American country observed that the Bangladeshis look to their leaders to protect democratic principles and to find a way to move forward to a free and fair election.