The United States-Pakistan partnership is essential for the prosperity and security of the region and the world, Washington's top diplomat said while greeting the country on its 68th Independence Day. "The United States will continue to invest with Pakistan in our shared security and shared prosperity for one simple reason: because the partnership between our two democracies is essential to the prosperity and security of the region and the world," Secretary of State John Kerry said.
"Building stronger ties with the people of Pakistan has long been a personal commitment of mine. In the Senate, I was privileged to sponsor what became known as the Kerry-Lugar-Berman Bill, which continues to provide support for a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous Pakistan," Kerry added.
"As Secretary of State, I have been pleased to work to strengthen this relationship. Since Pakistan's historic elections last May, the US and Pakistan have enjoyed great co-operation across the entire spectrum of issues from energy to security to education."
"Our two nations have long understood that education is the most important road to prosperity for the next generation. In keeping with that commitment, the United States now invests more in our Fulbright programme in Pakistan than anywhere else in the world.
"Our security partnership also remains critical. Stability in Pakistan and the region underpins all of our other shared efforts. We support efforts by Pakistan's civil society and government to stand up against extremists. We stand by your side in the struggle to develop a Pakistan where Pakistanis have a say and a stake in the nation's success." In the years to come, Kerry looked forward to "continuing to build upon and strengthen our important relationship."