LAHORE, July 7: Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi on Saturday said American people had waged a historic struggle for independence and laid the foundation of a modern civilisation in the world.

He was speaking at a function in connection with the independence day of America here, a handout said.

American Consulate Principal Officer Brian D Hunt also spoke on the occasion.

Provincial ministers, honorary consul generals of various countries in Pakistan and other prominent personalities were also present.

The chief minister congratulated the American people on their independence day and expressed the hope that bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan would strengthen and opportunities of cooperation in economic, social and trade sectors would further increase.

Brian D Hunt said he was happy to celebrate the independence day in Lahore and added that the day was a milestone with regard to upholding of fundamental rights and supremacy of law.