Lahore, 26 September 2022 (TDI): The US Ambassador to Pakistan, David Blome visited Wazir Khan Mosque in Lahore on Monday.
The Ambassador is on his three-day visit to the provincial capital of Punjab, Pakistan. This is also his first visit to Lahore since his appointment as the Ambassador of the US to Pakistan.
“It is a privilege to admire the richness of the Wazir Khan Mosque and Chowk, a symbol of the cultural, historical, and religious heritage of the city of Lahore. I was pleased to see U.S.-supported cultural preservation sites in the area.” -DB #AmbBlome #PakUSAt75 #AFCP 1/3 pic.twitter.com/HmUGaaFaDk
— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) September 26, 2022
During his visit, the ambassador will visit various places besides watching the flag-lowering ceremony at the Wahga. He will also watch the Pakistan-England T20I match at the Gaddafi stadium today.
Ambassador Blome visited different artifact shops in the outer courtyard of the mosque and interacted with the shopkeepers. He admired the tireless efforts of the architects, artists, and artisans in restoring the beauty of the spectacular place. The Ambassador also praised the cultural heritage of Lahore.
Overview of Wazir Khan Mosque
The Wazir Khan Mosque is a 17th-century mosque located in the city of Lahore. The mosque was commissioned during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a part of an ensemble of buildings that also included the nearby Shahi Hammam baths.
Construction of the Wazir Khan Mosque began in 1634 C.E. and was completed in 1641. It is also on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
Wazir Khan mosque, since 2009, is restored and preserved through the Ambassador’s Fund. Moreover, the work on the restoration of the domes inside and different shops and ‘hujras’ outside the mosque is in progress.
Ambassador’s Remarks
During his visit, Ambassador David said that Lahore is the custodian of the rich cultural heritage. He also mentioned that the US government is proud of playing its role in the preservation of the cultural sites in the different parts of the country through the Ambassador’s Fund.
“Since 2002, we have provided $1.6 million to conserve sites in this area, including the preservation of historical structures on the south side of Wazir Khan Mosque, which will continue to boost this area as a prominent tourist destination.” -DB #AmbBlome #AFCP 2/3 pic.twitter.com/tJDwemqiQd
— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) September 26, 2022
It is noteworthy that 32 cultural sites were preserved in Pakistan through US funding since 2001. The Ambassador said that projects like this exemplify the depth and breadth of Pakistan and US partnership.
On the occasion, the ambassador also extended his condolences to the people of Pakistan amid the ongoing floods. He said that Pakistan is passing through the most difficult times due to the incessant flooding in most parts of the country.
Additionally, he expressed that the US will continue to extend its support for Pakistan during these critical times.
Ambassador Blome was accompanied by US Counsel General Lahore, William Makaneole during his visit. Furthermore, Public Affairs officer US Consulate Lahore, Bryce A. Isham, and Deputy PAO, Carl R. Rogers also joined the Ambassador during his visit.
