The United States on Wednesday congratulated the government and people of Pakistan on their 66th anniversary of independence. "As you mark Independence Day this year, we also celebrate Pakistan's historic democratic transition and its continued advancement as a stable democracy in South Asia," Secretary of State John Kerry said in a statement. Kerry noted that he met earlier this month with officials from the newly elected government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and highlighted "our shared interest and cooperation in areas such as energy, the economy, education, and countering extremism." "I look forward to continuing to work closely with my counterparts in Pakistan to advance a shared vision that ensures a stable, secure, and prosperous Pakistan for generations to come," Kerry wrote.
