Dhaka: Even as India accuses Bangladesh of sheltering terrorist elements, the United States has lauded the Begum Khaleda Zia government for its "support in the war on terrorism".

"As we have both commented in previous correspondence, the ties that bind our two countries, are multi-faceted, but I especially value your support in the war on terrorism," President George W Bush said in a message on December 1 to Prime Minister Khaleda Zia on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Wishing Zia success in this endeavour, Bush also appreciated her government's desire to contribute to Afghanistan's reconstruction, and said "it was in keeping with the spirit of the season".

Meanwhile Begum Khaleda Zia, who offered her prayers at the "Masjidul Haram" in Mecca on November 30 is expected to return to Dhaka on December 4, Bangladeshi news agency BSS reported.

PTI