New York | July 29, 2026 — The U.S.-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (USBCCI) proudly hosted “Celebrating 250 Years of Service & Beyond – America 250,” a distinguished commemorative event honoring the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. The celebration brought together elected officials, diplomatic representatives, business executives, entrepreneurs, professionals, nonprofit leaders, and members of the Bangladeshi-American community to recognize America’s enduring legacy while strengthening the partnership between the United States and Bangladesh.
Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton New York LaGuardia Airport, the event served as a platform to celebrate the principles that have defined the United States for nearly two and a half centuries—freedom, democracy, innovation, diversity, opportunity, and public service—while recognizing the individuals and organizations that continue to contribute to the nation’s progress.
Celebrating America’s Enduring Legacy
Since 1776, the United States has stood as a global symbol of democratic values, economic opportunity, innovation, and civic leadership. As the nation marks its historic 250th anniversary, USBCCI organized this special celebration to honor America’s remarkable journey while recognizing the important contributions of immigrant communities, particularly Bangladeshi Americans, to the country’s continued growth and prosperity.
The event highlighted the expanding relationship between the United States and Bangladesh and reaffirmed USBCCI’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade, investment, entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and people-to-people engagement.
Distinguished Leaders Unite for a Historic Celebration
The afternoon began with guest registration and networking, followed by the national anthems of the United States and Bangladesh and a special commemorative video presentation celebrating America’s 250-year history.
Md. Liton Ahmed, Founder, President & CEO of the U.S.-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry, welcomed guests and emphasized USBCCI’s mission to serve as a bridge between businesses, institutions, entrepreneurs, and communities in both countries.
In his address, he reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to expanding bilateral trade and investment, supporting entrepreneurship, fostering public-private partnerships, and creating opportunities that strengthen economic cooperation between the United States and Bangladesh.
The event was honored by the presence of several distinguished elected officials, including:
- Congresswoman Grace Meng, U.S. House of Representatives, New York’s 6th Congressional District
- Assemblymember Steven Raga
- Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar
- Assemblymember Nikki Lucas
- Assemblymember David I. Weprin
Their participation underscored the importance of inclusive leadership, public service, and engagement with New York’s diverse communities.
Inspiring Keynote Address by Congresswoman Grace Meng
A highlight of the celebration was the keynote address delivered by Congresswoman Grace Meng, who shared inspiring remarks on leadership, civic engagement, diversity, and the important role immigrant communities continue to play in shaping America’s future.
Her participation reflected the strong relationship between elected leadership and the diverse communities they represent while recognizing the invaluable contributions of Bangladeshi Americans to New York and the United States.
Congresswoman Meng was introduced by Mohammed Islam Delwar, Founding Director of USBCCI and Chair of the event.
Distinguished Speakers Representing Government, Business and Community Leadership
The program featured insightful presentations from respected leaders representing government agencies, healthcare, business, finance, nonprofit organizations, and community institutions.
Featured speakers included:
- Dilip Chauhan
Deputy Chief Business Diversity Officer & Senior Advisor for MWBE Business Opportunities, New York City Mayor’s Office - Saleh Ahmed
Director of Market Development, VNS Health - Mohammed Mujumder
Chairperson, Bronx Community Board 9 - Muhammad Shahidullah
Founder & CEO, Save The People - Abdul W. Chowdhury
Founder & Managing Director, Dynamic Tax & Accounting Services - Ahad Ali, CPA
Founder & CEO, Ahad & Co CPA - Ismail Ahmed
Collectively, their perspectives highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation, healthcare, financial literacy, public service, and community development in advancing economic opportunity.
USA 250 Service & Excellence Awards
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the presentation of the USA 250 Service & Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals whose leadership and dedication have created lasting impacts in their professions and communities.
Awards were presented to leaders representing sectors including:
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Public Service
- Accounting & Financial Services
- Healthcare
- Real Estate
- Construction
- Community Leadership
- Media & Communications
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Business Development
The awards reflected USBCCI’s belief that strong communities are built by individuals who lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and create opportunities for others.
Recognizing the Contributions of Bangladeshi Americans
A central theme of the event was the recognition of the extraordinary contributions made by the Bangladeshi-American community.
Through entrepreneurship, professional excellence, public service, education, healthcare, technology, philanthropy, and civic engagement, Bangladeshi Americans continue to make meaningful contributions to the economic and social fabric of the United States while strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
USBCCI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these contributions through advocacy, networking, business development, and international collaboration.
Strengthening Economic and Community Partnership
Following the formal program, guests participated in a networking luncheon designed to encourage dialogue, build professional relationships, and explore future collaboration across industries and institutions.
The event concluded with closing remarks, official photography, and a group photo commemorating this historic milestone.
Looking Beyond America 250
While honoring America’s remarkable 250-year history, “Celebrating 250 Years of Service & Beyond – America 250” also looked toward the future.
The celebration reaffirmed USBCCI’s vision of serving as a catalyst for economic growth, entrepreneurship, trade promotion, leadership development, and community engagement between the United States and Bangladesh.
As America enters its next chapter, USBCCI remains committed to building stronger partnerships, expanding business opportunities, promoting innovation, and fostering lasting relationships that benefit both nations.
Statement from USBCCI President
“This celebration was more than an anniversary—it was a tribute to the enduring values that define America and to the individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication continue to strengthen our communities. As we commemorate 250 years of American independence, USBCCI remains committed to advancing trade, investment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful partnerships between the United States and Bangladesh. Together, we look forward to building an even stronger future for generations to come.”
