Kolkata/IBNS: The US Consulate in Kolkata on Tuesday (Nov. 19) held a solemn wreath-laying ceremony to remember the victims and survivors of the 2002 terrorist attack on the American Centre in the city.

The commemoration was attended by prominent American diplomats, including Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security Gentry O. Smith and Consul General Kathy Giles-Diaz, alongside senior officials from the Kolkata Police.

Speaking at the event, Gentry O. Smith addressed reporters about the security of consulates, particularly in light of recent attacks on Indian diplomatic missions in the United States.

Image: Facebook/US Consulate Kolkata

He emphasised that discussions on security issues would feature prominently during his visit to New Delhi. 

“The safety of diplomats serving in the US is a priority for us,” Smith stated.

“We remain engaged at every level—locally, nationally, and internationally—to address security concerns. Ensuring that diplomatic personnel can serve safely is a responsibility we take seriously, and it requires collaboration with host countries,” he added. 

Smith also referred to the attacks on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco in 2023, which occurred on March 19 and July 2.

In those incidents, groups of attackers committed trespass, vandalised property, and targeted consular staff.

The vandalism extended to the Indian High Commission in London on March 19, 2023, where protesters attempted to pull down the national flag while demonstrating outside. 

He highlighted the reciprocal nature of ensuring safety for diplomats worldwide.

“We owe it to foreign diplomats in the US to prioritise their security just as we expect the same for our personnel abroad,” Smith added. 

Speaking on the 2002 terrorist attack on the American Cultural Centre, Consul General Kathy Giles-Diaz said, “It is tragic that Kolkata holds the distinction of being the only city in India to have experienced an attack on an American diplomatic facility.”

“However, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the Kolkata Police and our local security team, whose efforts have been vital in ensuring our safety since that dark day,” she said. 

The attack, which occurred on January 22, 2002, saw militants open fire on the American Centre, killing five police personnel, including four police constables and a private security guard, and injuring at least 20 others.

The incident sent shockwaves through India and the United States, highlighting the growing threat of terrorism in the region at the time.

Image: Facebook/US Consulate Kolkata 

The ceremony featured a moment of silence, a wreath-laying ceremony at the consulate premises, and a special display honouring the police officers who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

Senior officials from the Kolkata Police and West Bengal government were also present to pay their respects. 

Over the years, the attack has been a pivotal moment in the history of Indo-American relations, leading to increased cooperation in intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts.

The ceremony underscored the enduring commitment to strengthening security measures and fostering international cooperation to protect diplomatic missions.

As attendees paid their respects, the event served as a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding global peace and diplomacy.