250th Anniv of American Independence

The United States is celebrating 250th anniversary of American independence worldwide including Bangladesh underscoring the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties between Dhaka and Washington through greater cultural exchanges and mutual understating to deepen the relations.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman greeted US President Donald Trump on US Independence Day and pledged stronger ties, highlighting recent progress in trade, investment and energy cooperation.

In a letter to US President Donald Trump on Saturday, Prime Minister said, “We are confident that with your pragmatic leadership, the United States is on track for further greatness in the decades to come.”

“Since our independence, the United States has been a valued friend and an important partner in our democratic and developmental journey. Over the past five decades, our bilateral ties have evolved into a robust and multifaceted partnership encompassing trade and investment, education, defence and extensive people-to-people connection,” he said.

“Now, we have entered a new chapter in our relationship with substantial progresses achieved since beginning of this year in the areas of trade, energy cooperation and investment,” he said.

In the letter, he also seeks support for addressing Rohingya crisis, adding : “We also appreciate deeply United States’ continued support and generosity in addressing the Rohingya crisis.”

Before conclusion, Tarque Rahman told US President, “Rest assured that my government and I will continue to work with you and your administration to further strengthen and deepen our partnership in the areas of our shared interests.”

Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen has underscored the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday at the American Fair held at Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park in Gulshan in the capital, the ambassador said the United States wanted to share more of its history, values and ideals with the people of Bangladesh.

“We believe the story of America has inspired many across the world, including many here in Bangladesh,” Christensen said. “We want to share more of our history with Bangladesh and help build people-to-people understanding between the two countries.”

The ambassador visited the fair as part of the United States’ Freedom 250 celebrations, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The event is one of several programmes being held under America Week 2026, a seven-day, multi-city celebration announced by the US Embassy in Dhaka.

The celebrations are taking place in Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet and Rajshahi, bringing American culture, history and values directly to Bangladeshi communities through a series of public events.

Among the highlights are Freedom 250 concerts featuring the US Army’s 25th Infantry Division Brass Band, the American Fair in Dhaka, the launch of a Founders Museum exhibition in Sylhet and a range of cultural and educational programmes across the country.

The US Army’s 25th Infantry Division Brass Band staged their performance in collaboration with the US Embassy at various venues, showcasing American music and cultural traditions.

“We’re also sharing history, sharing values, sharing ideals. So it’s a really fantastic experience,” Christensen said, describing the celebrations as “a great way for us to bring a taste of America”.

Referring to the anniversary, the ambassador added: “Today is our real birthday. It’s exciting to be here. We’re having great celebrations across Bangladesh.”

The emphasis on cultural engagement and public outreach reflects Washington’s broader efforts to strengthen grassroots connections between the peoples of Bangladesh and the United States, alongside longstanding diplomatic, educational and economic cooperation.

Later on the day, the US Army’s 25th Infantry Division Band performed at the South Plaza of the Bangladesh Sangsad Bhaban as part of the Freedom 250 celebrations.

Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal attended the programme as chief guest, while Ambassador Christensen was also present.

The America Week events are aimed at promoting mutual understanding and reinforcing the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and the United States through cultural exchange, music, history and community engagement.