Pakistan committed to strengthening bilateral ties with US: PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan and the United States are entering a new era in their bilateral relationship and they are committed to further strengthening their ties.

Speaking at the US Independence Day celebration at the American Embassy in Islamabad, the prime minister extended greetings on the occasion of the United States’ 249th Independence Day.

He noted that both countries uphold democratic traditions and the supremacy of their constitutions, adding that Pakistan was among the first nations to recognise the United States.

He said that Pakistan and the US share a long-standing relationship, which is now entering a new phase, with both sides determined to deepen cooperation.

Prime Minister Sharif said that the global war on terror began after 9/11, and by 2018, Pakistan had successfully eliminated terrorism from its soil.

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He emphasised that Pakistan suffered significant human and financial losses in the fight against terrorism and that its sacrifices are second to none.

He said that Pakistan had offered India an impartial international inquiry into the Pulwama incident, but instead of accepting the sincere proposal, India launched an attack on Pakistan.

In that aggression, women and children were also targeted, he noted, adding that Pakistan shot down six Indian aircraft in self-defence.

The prime minister said it is now beyond doubt that the Pulwama incident was a false-flag operation by India.

Despite the heightened tensions, Pakistan demonstrated great restraint and has always desired peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, he said.

Sharif welcomed the role of friendly countries in easing Pakistan-India tensions and in achieving a ceasefire. He confirmed that the ceasefire agreement between the two countries is currently being observed.

He stated that the US president is opposed to both cold and hot wars, and praised Donald Trump for his efforts in the ceasefire, saying Trump proved himself to be a messenger of peace without any ambiguity. He lauded Trump’s efforts to promote peace and enhance economic ties.

The prime minister also said that various US-backed development projects reflect the close relationship between the two countries. Pakistan, he added, is focused on strengthening its economy, and efforts are under way to enhance trade with the US, including resolving tariff-related issues.