The minister made the request when US Ambassador Harry K Thomas called on him at his office here yesterday.

Stating the past and present of agriculture sector, the minister said poverty alleviation and other components of economic development depend on agriculture which is still the mainstay of Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh has resoluble research outfit and logical set-up, but needs experts and scientists," Anwar said and requested Thomas to provide support for training to the agriculturists for modern research.

Expressing his eagerness to cooperate with Bangladesh in agricultural development, the US ambassador assured the minister that he would take up the issue of major review with the USAID and other international agencies.

He also inquired about the production and price situation of the crops other than cereals.

They also discussed two projects for toxicological research and entrepreneurship development, proposed for USAID funding.

Agriculture Secretary ASM Abdul Halim and other officials of the ministry and the USAID were also present.