The United States joined Pakistanis in celebrating the South Asian country’s 70th Independence Day on Monday, with a senior Trump Administration official in Washington calling Pakistan’s success in the fight against terror as vital to American interest.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Ambassador Thomas A. Shannon and Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States Aizaz Chaudhry also jointly cut a cake to mark 70 years of friendship between the two countries.
Acting Assistant Secretary of State Ambassador Alice Wells and Acting Secretary of Defense David Helvey were also among senior American officials who attended the event.
Conveying his felicitation and best wishes to the people of Pakistan on behalf of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Shannon noted that the United States was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Pakistan after its independence from Britain in 1947.
Photo: Views and News
Emphasizing the longstanding cooperation between the two countries, Undersecretary Shannon said Pakistan had been at the center of the most momentous foreign policy events of modern U.S. history including its role in establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and People’s Republic of China.
He highlighted cooperation between the two countries for achievement of their shared interests and objectives in the areas of economy, defence, education and social development. Shannon acknowledged the tremendous sacrifices of people of Pakistan in fight against terrorism.
Ambassador Shannon underlined that Pakistan’s successes against terrorism were of vital strategic and regional importance for the United States.
A folk dance celebrating Independence Day
Photo: Views and News
He said that Pakistan and US share fundamental desire for stability and prosperity and strong people to people ties are reinforcing the cooperation between the two countries.
Welcoming American officials and Pakistani-Americans, Ambassador Chaudhry touched on the proud journey of Pakistan, saying the country has come a long way from a humble beginning in 1947.
Chaudhry said the Pakistanis share American common values of democracy, liberty, justice, and rule of law. He expressed confidence that the two countries would work together to further deepen their decades-old ties.
The Pakistani embassy hosted a series of events to mark the 70th Independence Day, beginning with a festive ceremony as Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry hoisted the national flag. Pakistani cuisine and colorful performances by ‘Nomad’ dancers and Pakistani kids on folk tunes added to the festive mood.
The embassy also screened a documentary on Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, produced by renowned scholar Akbar S Ahmed, Chair, Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies. Dr. Ahmed reminded the audience of the importance of remembering Quaid-e-Azam’s principles and his commitment to purpose in life.
