The ambassador at a pre-scheduled reception of US journalist alumni here termed it a very sad day.

He offered his sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones and said the number of dead was not merely a figure. "These were people, sons, mothers, fathers and brothers, and we understand and share the grief."

He also mentioned the attack in Libya in which four American diplomats, including the US ambassador lost his life. He said such type of violence was not acceptable anywhere in the world.

He said the people of the United States were closely allied with the people of Pakistan and will continue to help Pakistani professionals achieve excellence in education, health, and other areas.