US Office d’Affaires Natalie Baker reaffirmed the strength of Pakistani relations on Wednesday and expressed its optimism about the future of bilateral cooperation.
Marking the 249th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence at the United States Embassy in Islamabad, it said: “Tonight is not only a celebration of our independence, but the reflection of shared values that bind our two nations-freedom, equality, self-government and continuation of happiness.”
The event attended a large gathering of dignitaries, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior officials from the Pakistani government, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, representatives of civil society and cultural icons, Baker paid tribute to the lasting friendship between the two countries.
Baker, stressing the historical nature of the relationship, noted that the United States was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Pakistan in 1947.
“Over the past 78 years, our partnership has become in depth and dimension, rooted with mutual respect and a common vision of opportunity and prosperity,” she added.
She recalled how cooperation in the development of the United States, through institutions such as USAID, had helped to strengthen the sectors of education, health, agriculture and infrastructure in Pakistan, and praised the long-standing ties of people to the population who have been at the heart of bilateral engagement.
Baker praised the contribution of American and Pakistani military officers who trained jointly and served, saying that their efforts have improved regional security and saved lives.
“Our cooperation on defense and the fight against terrorism has brought tangible results,” she said, quoting the recent capture and extradition of Pakistan to the Daesh-k operation responsible for the deadly attack on the 2021 abbey door in Afghanistan.
She appreciated the Pakistani government and the leaders of security for their role in the promotion of regional peace and stability, recognizing in particular the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz and chief of staff of the army, Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
By approaching economic engagement, she underlined the recent investment forum for critical minerals in Pakistan and increasing collaboration in digital innovation and emerging technologies.
It also referred to joint investments in cryptocurrency and other prospective initiatives that indicate a “shared vision for sustainable growth”.
In a diplomatic wink to recent regional developments, Baker has credited the joint efforts of Pakistan-Us to help make the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, describing it as a testimony to the power of constructive cooperation.
“Together, we will trace new borders-in trade, security, culture, technology, and yes, even cricket,” she said with a smile, referring to her commitment with the Pakistani company on and off the field.
The event, showcasing traditional American culinary culinary flavors and a musical performance of the United States Air Force Band, celebrated not only the American national identity but also the lasting links between the American and Pakistani peoples.
In conclusion, Baker thanked all the participants and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to a robust and mutually beneficial relationship. “Our relationship is strong-and the best is yet to come,” she said. “May the United States and Pakistan continue to thrive together.”
The reception reflects the dynamism of bilateral links and the evolutionary nature of a partnership aimed at promoting regional peace, economic growth and global cooperation.