The United States, European Union, France and Azerbaijan on Friday extended greetings to the people of Pakistan on the country’s 79th Independence Day, reaffirming their friendship and partnership with Islamabad.

The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters, while special prayers were offered for the peace, solidarity and prosperity of the country, Radio Pakistan reported.

Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held across the country, while buildings, streets and public places were decorated with national flags, buntings and colourful lights.

In a statement shared on X by the US Embassy Islamabad, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, “On behalf of the United States, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan on their Independence Day.”

“Through our mutual cooperation in areas such as regional mediation, critical minerals, energy, counterterrorism, cultural heritage, and trade and investment, we are transforming our shared capabilities into progress and delivering real results for both the American and Pakistani peoples,” Rubio said.

“On this special occasion, we reaffirm our enduring partnership between our nations and the longstanding friendship between our two peoples,” he added.

The European Union, in a message posted on X, extended its “heartfelt congratulations” to the people of Pakistan on the occasion of the country’s 79th Independence Day.

“This day is a celebration of unity, freedom, and the spirit of national solidarity,” the post said, adding, “We are committed to further strengthening our strong friendship and partnership with Pakistan.”

The Embassy of France in Pakistan also wrote on X, “France wishes the people of Pakistan a happy Independence Day.”

“We look forward to continuing to strengthen our partnership and cooperation across the many areas that connect our two countries,” it added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan also wrote on X, “On the occasion of the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the brotherly people and the Government of Pakistan. Happy Independence Day, Pakistan!”

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Embassy in Tajikistan said on X that it had held a flag-hoisting ceremony to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day.

“Messages of the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion,” the embassy said.