Dhaka, March 18 -- The Chief Advisor's Office (CAO) has responded to US Intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard's comments alleging persecution and killing of religious minorities in Bangladesh and that the threat of Islamic terrorists in the country is aimed at establishing an Islamist caliphate.

At a statement on Monday night, the CAO said: "We note with deep concern and distress the remarks made by DNI Tulsi Gabbard, in which she alleged persecution and killing of religious minorities in Bangladesh and that the threat of Islamic terrorists in the country is rooted in the ideology and objective to rule and govern with an Islamist caliphate.

"This statement is both misleading and damaging to the image and reputation of Bangladesh."

In an int...