"I don't think these events (prisoner abuse) have damaged US effectiveness in Iraq," Thomas told The Daily Star in an exclusive interview yesterday. "I think they pose problems for the American foreign policy and US credibility being a moral leader. But our strength will be shown as in the cases of Watergate scandal and President Clinton's impeachment hearing to show no American is above law. These persons will not only be investigated but prosecuted to show the world we are a nation of law."

"In recent days, Americans have come to know this shocking conduct by US servicemen and women responsible to oversee prisons in a decent manner as per the Geneva Convention. Instead, we have seen shameful images of prisoners being subjected to abuse and humiliation. Such practices do not reflect American values. They are stains on our country's honour and reputation. The US believes in dignity of every person."

Asked if he has any explanation about how these abuses happened, the envoy said: "We are still learning about the abuses. The major general who was asked to probe the incidents has done a 6,000-page report, which indicates it was not a systematic crime but abuses by some soldiers. We have to wait for a second report to let us know what military intelligence was doing in prison to avoid such events."

Expanding on the training of US soldiers, he said from day one, when a US serviceman is inducted, they are instructed of Geneva Convention. The Iraq incident means a failure in military leadership in prison, he admitted.

"We don't know how it happened. Our soldiers are taught proper treatment of prisoners according to the Geneva Convention," he added.

Thomas also denied allegations by the international press that the prison abuse was an outcome of US arrogance and said: "All I can say is all Americans are shocked and dismayed by what happened. We don't believe in arrogant people. We try to assist nations, we attract immigrants from all nations. If you look at the prison abuse probe team, you will find that all parts of the US are involved in it. The prison command is a female general, a US born Filipino is investigating. I don't know what you mean by arrogance."

Talking about the EPZ trade union agreement, he expressed his thanks for having such a deal that helps working men and women as well gives businessmen a chance to operate in a free manner.

"We are continuing to engage with Bangladesh government on mutual interests. Our government is sending officers to Bangladesh to talk to students in high schools and universities to show them the US is open to student visas. We have a long tradition of Bangladeshis studying in the US and this is beneficial for both countries," he added.