"The election will be held within the stipulated time set by the government, and as the chief adviser said, we will not stay a single day more than necessary," he said at a press briefing yesterday.

Asked to comment on recent calls by foreign envoys and delegates for the government to hold elections at the earliest, Iftekhar said the foreign delegations, such as the European Union Troika, who have asked him of government plans, appreciated the government's plan on elections.

"But, the people of Bangladesh will determine their own destiny," he added.

Iftekhar termed his recent trip to Australia a 'success' saying not only has Australia pledged a 33 percent aid increase, but both Dhaka and Canberra have taken significant steps to bring "a sense of structure" to their bilateral relationship.

The adviser said improved relationship between Dhaka and Canberra on the international level would also help Bangladesh's relationship with other countries including the United States.

He informed that Bangladesh would get 39,000 tonnes of wheat worth $14 million from Australia with possibilities in assistance in other sectors soon.

Iftekhar also expressed his 'deep sadness' at the continuing fighting between Hamas and Fatah in Palestine, saying, "This kind of conflict will not bring gain for anyone, least of all for the Palestinian cause. We would urge calm upon all sides."

"Unity among the Palestinians is essential to achieve their aspiration, which we also share, that is a separate and sovereign State for the Palestinian people. That is the goal on which the Palestinians and the international community should remain focused," he added.