In 1776, 250 years ago, our founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.  In doing so, they asserted what they believed was a fundamental right of all people—the right to self-rule.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.  That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

After justifying their decision to seek independence amidst grievances with England, our founders declared “the United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States.”  The founders then pledged to support the declaration with their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

A courageous statement.  The American Declaration of Independence has rightly captured the imagination of people across the globe for over two centuries, inspiring struggle against oppression and the pursuit of self-determination. 

In the words of President Trump, “With a single sheet of parchment and 56 signatures, America began the greatest political journey in human history.”

But it wasn’t just a statement.  Americans put into action the dream of creating a free and independent state and put their lives on the line.  

The 56 brave men who had signed our Declaration of Independence fully expected to be executed if they failed in their efforts.

They knew it was going to be a long and difficult war they might not survive.  But they believed in their cause, and they put America first.

Today, under President Trump’s leadership, we are again putting America first.

Then and now, America First doesn’t mean America alone.  During the Revolutionary War, Americans received critical help from our allies.

Today, in the same way, we are pursuing policies that make sense for the American people—just as Bangladesh’s leaders are pursuing policies that make sense for the people of Bangladesh.  And often, we find things that are mutually beneficial—including the U.S.-Bangladesh Agreement on Reciprocal Trade signed in February and the Memorandum of Understanding on Strategic Cooperation in the Field of Energy signed in May that support economic growth and investment in both our countries.  This is the nature of diplomacy.

So today, as we mark the 250th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence, we reflect not only on our founding ideals, but also on the enduring role of diplomacy in shaping our nation’s journey and global impact.  

Our celebrations to mark America’s founding are part of Freedom 250 – a global initiative to commemorate the founding ideals of the United States—liberty, democracy, and freedom.

Freedom 250 is not just a reflection on the past—it’s a launchpad for the future.  Under President Trump’s vision, we are forging new partnerships, championing innovation, and defining a new era of diplomacy that will carry us forward for the next 250 years. 

As America celebrates our 250th birthday, we do so with deep gratitude for our friends across the world, including the people of Bangladesh.  I invite you to join us to celebrate America’s birthday throughout the first week of July – America Week – and throughout 2026 as we celebrate freedom, friendship, and the shared promise of a future together.