World Leaders Extend Warm Wishes to Pakistan on 79th Independence Day
Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day on Thursday with celebrations across the country, including a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered for peace, unity, and prosperity as leaders from around the world congratulated Pakistan and highlighted strong diplomatic ties.
United States
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended heartfelt wishes on behalf of the American people, praising Pakistan’s cooperation in counterterrorism and trade. He said the US looks forward to exploring new areas of economic partnership, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, to build “a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis.”
Several members of the US Congress also shared video messages via Radio Pakistan, including Pete Sessions, Yvette Clarke, Chris Van Hollen, Judy Chu, and Zoe Lofgren, each commending the contributions of Pakistani-Americans to science, technology, culture, and community building.
New Jersey State Assembly member Shama Haider — the first Muslim and Pakistani-American elected to the body — said, “No matter where we live, Pakistan lives in our hearts. Let’s honour our heritage and work together for progress.”
China
The Chinese Embassy in Islamabad wished Pakistan continued prosperity and reaffirmed the “ironclad friendship” between the two nations. “China–Pakistan Dosti Zindabad!” the statement read.
Russia
The Russian Embassy praised Pakistan’s progress since independence and acknowledged its role in areas including space exploration. It wished the nation “success, prosperity, and well-being” while invoking the vision of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
European Union & Member States
The EU Delegation to Pakistan and Ambassador Riina Kionka sent greetings, saying, “Together, we celebrate friendship and unity — because we are stronger together.”
The French and German embassies also shared congratulatory messages, with Germany’s consul general in Karachi recalling the ideals of unity, faith, and discipline that led to Pakistan’s creation.
Other Countries
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Romania: Ambassador Dan Stoenescu reaffirmed Romania’s friendship and desire to strengthen trade, education, and cultural ties.
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Sweden: Ambassador Alex Berg von Linde sent warm wishes to the people of Pakistan.
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Switzerland: Extended greetings to all celebrating on August 14.
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Ukraine: Praised friendly relations and looked forward to deeper diplomatic engagement.
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Turkiye: Called Pakistan a “friendly and brotherly” nation, ending with “Pakistan Zindabad!”
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Azerbaijan: Sent “heartfelt congratulations” to the government and people of Pakistan.
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Indonesia: Wished Pakistan well on its national day.
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Afghanistan: Reaffirmed commitment to stronger cooperation for peace and prosperity in the region.
The global outpouring of greetings underscored Pakistan’s enduring ties with nations worldwide and the shared hope for continued friendship, stability, and development in the years ahead.
