Dhaka, Sept. 21 -- Supporters of the ruling BNP and the Awami League have clashed in New York ahead of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's arrival in the United States, prompting riot police to intervene.

The confrontation took place at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights on Sunday evening (local time) as supporters of both parties gathered in connection with the prime minister's visit.

More than 50 riot police officers moved in to bring the situation under control.

BNP supporters had converged on Diversity Plaza to mark the arrival of Tarique, who is heading to New York to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Awami League supporters gathered nearby and responded with slogans of their own.

At one point, pushing ...