Dhaka, March 18 -- US Intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard has said the "persecution of religious minorities" in Bangladesh is a "major area of concern" for the United States.

In an interview with the Indian news channel NDTV World on Monday, she said: "The longtime unfortunate persecution, killing, and abuse of religious minorities like Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others has been a major area of concern for the US government and President Trump and his administration."

Gabbard was also asked to comment on the rise of "Islamic extremism" and terrorist elements in Bangladesh.

She replied, "The talks are just beginning between President Trump's new cabinet and the Bangladesh interim government, but this continues to remain a central f...