US Wishes Pakistan Happy Independence Day, Acknowledges Counterterrorism Collaboration

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday extended Independence Day greetings to Pakistan, appreciating the country’s efforts in counterterrorism and trade cooperation.

Rubio said, “On behalf of the United States, I congratulate the people of Pakistan on their Independence Day. We deeply value Pakistan’s engagement on counterterrorism and trade, and we look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, while fostering business partnerships that benefit both Americans and Pakistanis.”

Pakistan observes August 14 as the day it was founded in 1947, following the partition of British India.

Strengthening US-Pakistan Ties
US-Pakistan relations have seen renewed focus, highlighted by Washington’s designation of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organizations. This announcement coincided with Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir’s second visit to the US.

The US has pledged investments in Pakistan’s energy and mineral sectors, while a recent trade deal will help develop Pakistan’s oil reserves and reduce tariffs. Counterterrorism talks were also held in Islamabad, amid India highlighting Pakistan’s links to the Pahalgam attack terrorists.

In India, there has been concern over US engagement with Munir, especially after his nuclear threats, with criticism directed at the US State Department for not addressing these remarks.