In just 250 years since declaring independence from British colonial rule on July 4, 1776, the United States has established itself as a remarkable example of progress in science, technology, education, healthcare and virtually every other sector worldwide.

These achievements did not come easily. Rather, the hard work, honesty, perseverance, patriotism and constant desire to innovate among Americans have served as the driving forces. I believe that one of the key reasons for America's success is its culture of curiosity and inquiry.

At the individual, family, community and national levels, people continuously evaluate every aspect of life and seek ways to improve. Just as large organizations have research and development departments, R&D has become an inseparable part of American society and culture.

Whenever I speak about America, I often recall a statement by renowned South Asian writer Anisul Hoque. Describing America, he succinctly referred to it as "Where the mind is without fear." This phrase immediately reminds us of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which recognizes freedom of the press, freedom of speech and freedom of religion as fundamental rights.

People are also........

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