In his message on Pakistan’s Independence Day on Tuesday, United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo expressed hope that the two countries would be able to work to further strengthen their ties. Pompeo said, “The US hopes to further strengthen ties with Pakistan in the years ahead and work with its people and government to advance shared goals of security, stability and prosperity in South Asia.” He added, “For more than seven decades, the relationship between US and Pakistan has rested on the strong foundation of close ties between our two peoples.” He also extended best wishes to the Pakistani people on behalf of the US government, besides expressing the desire to work with the Government of Pakistan to advance shared goals. “On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to extend my best wishes to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day,” said a statement released by the US embassy in Islamabad, quoted Mike Pompeo. The British and German ambassadors to Pakistan released video statements on Twitter to wish Pakistanis on the Independence Day anniversary. “I want to see Pakistan happy, strong and developed in the future,” said German envoy Martin Kobler, who is popular on the social media platform for his fluency in Urdu. Thomas Drew, the British high commissioner to Pakistan, said he had lived in Pakistan for five years but he has been visiting the country for the past 12 years. “I am certain Pakistan’s future is very bright and the British government and people will fully support you in making it even better,” he said, also speaking in Urdu. Published in Daily Times, August 15th 2018.