ISLAMABAD: Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Ambassador Alice Wells has expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. Ambassador Wells visited Islamabad from August 3-4 as part of her introductory trip to the region, said a statement issued by the US Embassy on Friday. In Islamabad, she met with Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Zubair Hayat. She also met with a group of Pakistani students and teachers who have participated in a U.S. Department of State-funded two- year English-language course of study known as the Access Microscholarship program. Noting the ongoing South Asia Policy Review, Ambassador Wells underscored the value of cooperation across a range of sectors and mutual interests, including security, trade, and the stability and security of Afghanistan. She stressed that Pakistani soil must not be used to plan or conduct terrorist attacks against its neighbors. Ambassador Wells congratulated Pakistan on the upcoming 70th anniversary of its independence, noting the occasion also marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and partnership between America and Pakistan.