Tunis: U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia Bill Bazzi on Thursday, during a ceremony marking the 250th anniversary of American independence (Freedom 250), attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad Mohamed Ali Nafti, underscored the historic friendship between the two countries. According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, the ambassador recalled that Tunisia was among the first nations to recognize American independence, a relationship enshrined in the 1797 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, one of the oldest treaties in U.S. history still in force today. He also referred to the United States' recognition of Tunisia's independence in 1956 and highlighted ongoing bilateral cooperation in trade, entrepreneurship, security, education, and regional stability. Ambassador Bill Bazzi expressed hope for 'a future in which cooperation, friendship and the enduring bonds between Tunisia and the United States continue to flourish.' He emphasized America's Independence Day as a celebration of 250 years o f freedom and reaffirmed the commitment to shared prosperity, security, and opportunity between the two nations. Since his arrival in Tunisia in November 2025, he noted, new business projects have been launched, and progress has been made in military and security partnerships. The U.S. Embassy in Tunisia celebrated the event as a representation of 250 years of American independence, democratic ideals, and the enduring friendship between the two countries across generations. The partnership continues to expand through 229 years of diplomatic relations, trade exchanges, security cooperation, and growing people-to-people ties. The evening also highlighted preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with expectations of Tunisian athletes and fans traveling to the United States. This is anticipated to create new opportunities for cultural exchange and business links, further strengthening the longstanding ties between the two friendly nations. The annual Independence Day reception hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Tu nis was attended by the foreign minister, Tunisian and international partners, government officials, business leaders, representatives of civil society and the media, alumni of exchange programs, and friends of the United States from across Tunisia.