Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has told the people of Pakistan that the United States backed their efforts to strive for a more peaceful and prosperous country. "As you celebrate Pakistan Day, know that the United States stands with you," she said in a message marking Pakistan Day.
Clinton said: "I join President Barack Obama and the people of the United States in congratulating the people of Pakistan as you celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Lahore Resolution this March 23, which laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan".
"The United States and Pakistan are united by shared values, common interests and mutual respect. We are constantly striving for greater tolerance, to enforce the rule of law and uphold the principles of democracy in both our countries. As Mohammad Ali Jinnah said, "the story of Pakistan, its struggle and its achievement, is the very story of great human ideals, struggling to survive in the face of great odds and difficulties". She said that these words ring true today as Pakistan works to fulfil the vision of its founders. "We join the people of Pakistan in honouring these ideals and the valiant sacrifices the Pakistani people are making every day in the fight against violent extremism."