The US Secretary of State also voiced interest in expanding cooperation in critical minerals, hydrocarbons, and business partnerships to boost prosperity in both nations. (AP Photo)US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement released by the US Department of State, congratulated Pakistan on its Independence Day. “On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14,” Rubio said.He added that Washington “deeply appreciates Pakistan’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 Pakistan on its Independence Day pic.twitter.com/z3BCn60eQ0— ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025According to Geo TV, Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in each provincial capital. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a flag-hoisting ceremony in the capital, followed by a large-scale defence exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground.Islamabad’s Metropolitan Corporation, in partnership with cultural groups, has also organised evening performances by traditional dance troupes from all provinces. Other festivities include art exhibitions, musical evenings, and children’s competitions.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 Pakistan’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 ceremonyThe date coincided with the 27th day of Ramzan, a significant day in Islam.Since then, Pakistan 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)Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:Marco RubioPakistan Independence Day