ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of the United States of America in Islamabad Thursday hosted a reception here to celebrate the 243rd anniversary of American independence.

The reception was attended by the government officials, businessmen, civil society and celebrities that featured music, traditional American food, and simulated fireworks. Federal Minister for Energy Omar Ayub Khan was the guest honor.

Under the theme of “Building a Vision,” speakers, photos, and video displays highlighted the common values underpinning the US and Pakistani friendship and the shared goals of the two countries.

In his remarks, Ambassador Paul Jones, Chargé d’Affaires the  the theme of  the event was to tell the story of how the US and Pakistan built their nations, capitols, embassies, and relationship.

“The story brings out parallels, from founding principles of our nations to our respective investments in iconic embassies in each other’s capitals. We are very proud of this brand-new, beautiful embassy compound – one of the largest in the world – which speaks to the value and commitment we place on the relationship between our countries,” he remarked.

During the ceremony, the Embassy’s U.S. Marine Corps Detachment marched in the flag of the United States and choirs sang the U.S. and Pakistani national anthems.

After the formalities, the guests took part in traditional July 4th activities and ate food that Americans normally enjoy as part of their Independence Day celebrations.

For the evening’s featured entertainment, the United States Air Force Central Command’s band “Drop Zone” serenaded the guests with classic and modern rock and roll, country, and pop music, having flown to Pakistan from Doha to take part in the celebrations.