Bangla polls within EC timeframe: Prez

Dhaka, Oct 29: Inviting international observers to monitor elections in the country, Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed has reiterated that the polls would be held within the timeframe set by the Election Commission.

''Bangladesh is maintaining peace and harmony among the people of various faiths and has emerged as a country of communal harmony in the world,'' Dr Iajuddin told outgoing Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to Bangladesh Monsignor Paul Tschang In-Nam, who made a farewell call on him at Bangabhaban.

The President appreciated Monsignor Paul for his sincere endeavour in strengthening relations between Bangladesh and Vatican City during his five-year tenure.

Stating that Islam is a religion of peace and committed to upholding humanity around the world, the President said, ''The people of Bangladesh are very simple, peace-loving, tolerant, pious and hardworking.'' Military Secretary to the President Major General M Aminul Karim, Secretary M Sirajul Islam, Press secretary Abdul Awal Howlader and top officials were present on the occasion.

UNI