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Lahore, April 8, 2007 – Six-member U.S. Congressional delegation led by Congresswoman Nita Lowey at the flag-lowering ceremony at Joint Check Post Wagah Border near Lahore on Sunday.
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Lahore - During a day-long visit to Lahore, a six-member Congressional delegation led by Congresswoman Nita Lowey (Democrat, New York) took time to witness the flag-lowering ceremony at Joint Check Post Wagah Border that draws huge crowds on both sides of the Pakistan-India border daily at sundown.
Upon arrival at Wagah, the U.S. delegation was received by Lt. Colonel Tariq Janjua, Wing Commander, 10 Wing, Sutlej Rangers. The delegation was then taken to Zero Point – a white line on the tar road marking the actual border -- and briefed on the history of the border-crossing. Following the briefing, the delegation was escorted to the stands.
As is customary for visiting dignitaries, Congresswoman Lowey signaled permission to the Parade Commander to begin the ceremony. What followed was a 25-minute parade by the Pakistani and Indian border forces, marked by highly choreographed marching steps. To the sound of bugles, the two flags were lowered, and soldiers from both sides shook hands before closing the border gates for the night.
The delegation felt it was a "moving ceremony" and one the members "would remember for a long time to come."
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