"There is no alternative to reforms for transparent and credible elections where voters will be able to choose their government independently," Hasina was quoted by her political secretary as having told new US Ambassador Patricia Butenis.

Butenis, who had more than an hour's meeting with Hasina, told reporters "We'd very good discussion about free and fair elections and we agreed that everyone would be able to participate in the polls."

The US envoy said they had also discussed terrorism and political violence in the country.

Appreciating the capture of JMB leaders, Butenis emphasised investigation into the attacks on Sheikh Hasina and British High Commissioner Anwar Choudhury, and the killing of former finance minister Shah AMS Kibria in grenade attack in Habiganj.

"It is also important to continue to investigate the attack on Sheikh Hasina herself… This is also terrorism," the envoy said.

Butenis, who leaves for Washington today, said she will look forward to meeting Sheikh Hasina after her return and "continue the relationship".

Awami League General Secretary Abdul Jalil, Opposition Leader's Political Secretary Saber Hossain Chowdhury and Sheikh Hasina's son Sajib Wazed Joy were present in the meeting.

Briefing newsmen, Saber Chowdhury said militancy, corruption and good governance also came up for discussion with the ambassador.