Rubio congratulates Pakan on Independence Day, appreciates ‘engagement on counterterrorism, trade’ | World News
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement released the US Department of State, congratulated Pakan on its Independence Day. “On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14,” Rubio said.
He added that Washington “deeply appreciates Pakan’s engagement on counterterrorism and trade” and expressed interest in expanding cooperation into new areas such as critical minerals, hydrocarbons, and business partnerships aimed at promoting prosperity for both nations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulates Pakan on its Independence Day pic.twitter.com/z3BCn60eQ0
— ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025
According to Geo TV, Pakan’s 78th Independence Day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in each provincial capital. Prime Miner Shehbaz Sharif led a flag-hoing ceremony in the capital, followed a large-scale defence exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground.
Islamabad’s Metropolitan Corporation, in partnership with cultural groups, has also organised evening performances traditional dance troupes from all provinces. Other festivities include art exhibitions, musical evenings, and children’s competitions.
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The country celebrates its Independence Day one day before India’s. The Indian Independence Act had initially set the same date for both countries, and Pakan’s first stamp, along with Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s first address, mentioned August 15 as its independence date.
The shift to August 14 came in 1948 for two main reasons:
The power transfer ceremony in Karachi was held on August 14, 1947, allowing Lord Mountbatten to travel to New Delhi for India’s midnight ceremony
The date coincided with the 27th day of Ramzan, a significant day in Islam.
Since then, Pakan has continued to mark August 14 as its Independence Day, while India observes the original August 15 date.
(With inputs from US Department of State, GeoTV)
