Dhaka, July 4 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday said the United States has remained a valued friend and trusted partner of Bangladesh since its independence, playing an important role in the country's democratic and development journey.

In a letter to US President Donald Trump marking the United States' 250th Independence Day, shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the prime minister wrote, "On behalf of the Government and the people of Bangladesh, and on my own behalf, I extend our warmest felicitations to you and the people of your great country, the United States of America, on the momentous milestone of your 250th Independence Day.

"We are confident that, under your pragmatic leadership, the United States is on track ...