They are Dr Noazesh Ahmed (art and culture), Dr Hafiz G A Siddiqui, vice-chancellor of North South University, (education), Prof Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, head of the department of computer science and engineering of Shahajalal University of Science and Technology, (science and technology), Lailun Nahar Ekram, chairperson of Bangladesh Women Entrepreneurs' Forum, (business) and M Mahbubuzzaman, chairman of Bangladesh Medical College Hospital, (public service).

Outgoing US Ambassador Harry K Thomas gave away the awards at a function at a city hotel on Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, Thomas said in Bangla: "I am very sad that I have to go back to Washington soon. Bangladesh is a good country and I have enjoyed my stay here."

"Many people say that the USA helps Bangladesh, but I say Bangladesh helps the USA," said the US envoy.

Law Minister Moudud Ahmed said Thomas played an important role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries as well as peoples.

American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) President Aftabul Islam, AAA President Syed Almas Kabir, former president Dr AKM Mashiur Rahman and AAA executive committee member Prof Akhter Sultana were also present.