US Wishes Pakistan On Independence Day, Appreciates Islamabad's Efforts On Counterterrorism

The United States on Thursday wishes Pakistan on the occasion of its Independence Day.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended the wishes, highlighting the growing ties between Washington and Islamabad, particularly on security and trade.

In a formal statement, Rubio conveyed wishes on behalf of the United States. "On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14. The United States deeply appreciates Pakistan's engagement on counterterrorism and trade," Rubio said.

The Secretary of State also signalled a desire for deeper economic ties. He said, "We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships which will promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis."

Rubio's warm statement comes as relations between the two nations appear to be strengthening. This upswing follows Washington's recent designation of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a foreign terrorist organization, a move that coincided with a visit to the US by Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir. Furthermore, the US has committed to new trade and investment deals aimed at developing Pakistan's oil reserves and mineral mining sectors.

However, this warming relationship is viewed with caution in New Delhi. The US and Pakistan recently held a counterterrorism dialogue, even as India presented what it described as strong evidence linking Pakistani terrorists to the Pahalgam attack.

Adding to the complexity, US President Donald Trump has claimed credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan using trade as leverage. This assertion was directly refuted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who clarified in Parliament that no third party was involved in the military conflict.

Concerns in India have also been raised over the US State Department's silence following reported nuclear threats made by General Munir, who allegedly said Pakistan "would take half of the world down". For some observers, Washington's lack of response is seen as an unwillingness to take responsibility for statements made by a key partner.