The United States, European Union, France and Azerbaijan on Friday extended greetings to Pakistan on its 79th Independence Day, reaffirming their friendship and partnership with the country.
Independence Day celebrations began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered for Pakistan’s peace, solidarity and prosperity.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held across the country, with streets, buildings and public spaces decorated with national flags, buntings and colourful lights to mark the occasion.
In a message shared by the US Embassy in Islamabad, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated the Pakistani people on behalf of the United States.
“On behalf of the United States, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan on their Independence Day,” Rubio said.
He highlighted growing cooperation between Washington and Islamabad in several areas, including regional mediation, critical minerals, energy, counterterrorism, cultural heritage, trade and investment.
“Through our mutual cooperation … we are transforming our shared capabilities into progress and delivering real results for both the American and Pakistani peoples,” Rubio said.
The secretary of state also reaffirmed the broader relationship between the two countries, describing it as an “enduring partnership” supported by longstanding ties between their peoples.
“On this special occasion, we reaffirm our enduring partnership between our nations and the longstanding friendship between our two peoples,” he added.
The messages from Pakistan’s international partners came as Independence Day celebrations continued nationwide, commemorating the country’s creation in 1947.