"Bringing to justice in a transparent and lawful manner all of the organisers, sponsors, perpetrators of all acts of extremist and political violence remains the paramount goal for anybody concerned with the security and future of this country," she told a press conference marking the inauguration of American Week at Hotel Agrabad here yesterday.

Welcoming the capture of top JMB leaders Abdur Rahman and Siddiqul Islam alias Bangla Bhai, she said, "It is an important step forward in the government's response to the JMB's campaign of terror."

Asked about her observation regarding the alleged involvement of Jamaat-e-Islami and some ruling BNP leaders with the JMB, Chammas said allegations of having link with the banned militant outfit were also made against some other parties. So investigations should be made into all these allegations, she said.

Chammas said the priority of the American government is to work with Bangladesh closely to counter terrorism what she said was a threat to all.

The charge d' affaires said support to democracy is one of America's top priorities around the world. "We want to do what we can to help Bangladesh maintain and strengthen its democracy."

"Bangladesh can be proud of its democracy and Chittagong can be proud of its mayoral election last May, but maintaining that tradition requires constant diligence," she observed.

Chammas hoped that the government will take steps for maintaining its democracy and holding a free and fair election, saying that only a level playing field and fair polls will give the winners legitimacy.

She appreciated the opposition's return to parliament and hoped that the opposition would be able to contribute to public debate in a meaningful way through democratic means rather than disruptive means.

On US help to combating terrorism, Chammas said the US embassy supports the government's anti-terrorism activities by providing training for the police and the coastguard.

The US charge d' affaires also underscored the need for developing Chittagong Port, particularly the port's operational efficiency, for which she felt the necessity of efforts by both the government and the private sector.

"Bangladesh faces the challenge of promoting economic growth that will be shared by all sectors of society," she said.

Americans would like to see Bangladesh grow and believe that trade is the most effective motor of economic development, she added.

Replying to a question on extra-judicial killing in the process of combating crimes, Chammas said, "It is not a proper way to fight the criminals or crimes."

Foreign Minister M Morshed Khan inaugurated the three-day America Week aimed at fostering understanding and cooperation between the Americans and Bangladeshis at Ichhamati Hall of the hotel at 11:00am.

Some 49 stalls of different NGOs working under USAID and different commercial organisations have been set up there.