The United States has joined countries around the world, including Bangladesh, to reaffirm the universal right of free expression and the essential role press freedom plays in protecting democracy and keeping citizens informed and safe.     "The work of journalists, photojournalists, and media outlets often comes with sacrifice, including here in Bangladesh," said US Ambassador to Bangladesh Earl Miller in a statement on Saturday marking the World Press Freedom Day that falls on May 3.   “This year, we pay special tribute to those journalists who work tirelessly, often under stressful and dangerous conditions, to inform the public about the COVID-19 pandemic.”      Ambassador Miller said they honour the journalists who have fallen ill from COVID-19 and their selfless dedication to public service.    "We honor the life of Humayan Kabir Khokon, a senior journalist who worked until the day of his death and posthumously tested positive for the virus. We send our sincere condolences to Khokon’s family," said the US Ambassador.     Ambassador Miller said they honour all journalists, everywhere, who have sacrificed their lives, freedom and personal wellbeing in pursuit of truth and justice.