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Sombre mood marks Sept 11 anniversary in US embassy

Sheela Bhatt in New Delhi

A sombre ceremony at the heavily guarded United States embassy in New Delhi on Wednesday marked the first anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon, in which close to 3000 people, including many Indians, perished.

Albert Thibault, the deputy chief of mission, addressed the small gathering of local Americans, as the US ambassador, Robert D Blackwill, is in New York to attend a special ceremony to honour the victims of the attack.

Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, along with many world leaders, is also in New York.

Speaking about the attack on the twin towers of the World Trade Centre, Thibault said, "We observed these terrible and sombre events unable to imagine the pain, suffering and fear that these innocent people experienced. No words can convey the emotions we felt."

"We take pride in the resolve and determination of the American people. America moved quickly to track down and bring to justice the perpetrators of these evil acts," he added. "Most importantly, we take pride in the fact that these awful acts of terrorism have not deflected our country and our society from the ideals and institutions that have made America a beacon for all nations."

Thibault also thanked India for 'being among the very first to align itself with US in the war against terrorism' and for its 'spontaneous outreach and consistent support'.

The embassy spokesman, Gordon Duguid, said, "The feeling is of a sombre reflection. Nevertheless, it is also a day of pride because it demonstrates the deep multicultural roots of the American society."

A photo exhibition of the attacks has also been organised at the embassy.

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For further coverage, please visit www.saja.org/roundupsept11.html

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