ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Islamabad marked the 250th anniversary of United States Independence Day with a formal ceremony held in the federal capital, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The event brought together senior officials and diplomats, highlighting the continuing engagement between Pakistan and the United States across diplomatic, economic, and cultural fronts.
Speaking at the ceremony, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker welcomed the presence of the Prime Minister and described Pakistan-US relations as a strong and enduring partnership built on shared interests. She said the strategic relationship between the two countries is advancing through a common spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit.
She emphasised that genuine friendship is grounded in shared objectives and collaborative progress. According to her remarks, the US diplomatic team has been working extensively in key areas including visas, trade, investment, and security cooperation, with tangible positive outcomes emerging from these efforts.
Natalie Baker noted that a stronger Pakistan is in the interest of the United States, adding that bilateral cooperation is contributing to improved livelihoods through joint initiatives in agriculture, industry, and other development sectors. She underlined that the partnership continues to evolve in ways that support long-term regional stability and economic growth.
Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement, she said Islamabad hosted high-level talks between Iran and the United States in April, describing it as an important example of Pakistan’s constructive role on the international stage.
She also mentioned that US President Donald Trump appreciated the role played by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir in relation to efforts linked to an Iran ceasefire arrangement.
Reflecting on cultural experiences, Baker recalled her participation in Lahore’s Basant festival, describing it as a vibrant cultural celebration that reflects Pakistan’s traditions. She also noted that the United States is preparing to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, highlighting shared global engagements that extend beyond diplomacy and politics.
The ceremony concluded with reaffirmations of continued cooperation between Islamabad and Washington across multiple sectors, reinforcing the trajectory of an evolving partnership.