At a grand celebration in Islamabad, US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker strongly reaffirmed the importance of Pakistan-US relations. The event, held on Wednesday at the US Embassy, marked the 249th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence.
Speaking to a diverse gathering, Baker expressed deep confidence in the future of this bilateral partnership. “Tonight isn’t just about celebrating our freedom,” she said, “It’s about honoring the values we share—freedom, equality, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was among the many high-profile guests. The audience also included senior Pakistani officials, diplomats, business leaders, civil society members, and prominent cultural personalities. In her address, Baker called the friendship between both nations long-standing and resilient.
She noted that the United States was among the first to recognize Pakistan’s independence in 1947. Over the past 78 years, Pakistan-US relations have expanded in depth and strength. This friendship, she said, is rooted in mutual respect and shared hopes for progress and peace.
Baker also highlighted how the US has supported Pakistan’s growth. Through USAID and other development programs, America has helped improve education, healthcare, farming, and infrastructure in Pakistan. She praised the strong people-to-people bonds that have kept this relationship alive and thriving.
Discussing defense, she saluted the collaboration between US and Pakistani military officers. Their joint efforts, she said, have boosted security across the region. She acknowledged Pakistan’s recent arrest and extradition of the Daesh-K militant behind the deadly 2021 Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan. This, she added, was a clear result of Pakistan-US cooperation in counterterrorism.
Baker also thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for promoting peace and stability in the region. She noted that these efforts showed leadership and commitment from Pakistan’s side.
On economic ties, she mentioned the Pakistan Critical Minerals Investment Forum. She also pointed out new partnerships in digital technology, cryptocurrency, and innovation. These joint ventures show a shared goal of long-term growth.
In a nod to recent diplomacy, Baker praised the joint role of Pakistan and the US in securing a ceasefire between Pakistan and India. She called it a symbol of what constructive partnerships can achieve.
“Together, we are exploring new ground—whether in trade, defense, technology, or even cricket,” she said with a lighthearted smile, alluding to her personal connection with Pakistan’s culture and people.
The evening featured traditional American food and a live performance by the United States Air Force band. It was a lively event that celebrated not just American independence, but also the strong Pakistan-US relations built over the decades.
Baker closed her remarks by thanking all attendees and pledging continued US commitment. “Our relationship is solid,” she said. “And the future looks even brighter.” She hoped both nations would move forward side by side in peace, growth, and mutual benefit.
The reception perfectly reflected the growing partnership between the two countries. It also showed how Pakistan-US relations are evolving in diplomacy, trade, culture, and global cooperation.
