Dhaka, Jan. 10 -- National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman has requested Allison Hooker, US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, to ease travel of Bangladeshi businessmen to the US in the context of the recent visa bond move, as he met her at the State Department in Washington DC, on Friday.

Dr Khalilur Rahman also requested, if possible, to exempt B1 short term business visa for Bangladeshi businessmen from the visa bond, according to a press release of the chief adviser's press wing.

In response, Hooker recognised the matter and assured that the US government will positively consider the step.

She also indicated that if the overstay by tourists declines substantially in future, the US might review the bond requirements...