Dimple Arora reports on G20 Summit in Kashmir…
On the third and final day of the G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting in Srinagar, the delegates began their day with invigorating yoga and sports activities. Following this, they had the privilege of visiting Nishant Bagh, where they embraced the rich Kashmiri culture by donning traditional attire for a memorable group photo session.
During the third TWG session on Tuesday, the delegates explored the local craft market, indulging in a delightful shopping experience. It was on the second day of the meeting that LG Manoj Sinha expressed his optimism, stating that Jammu and Kashmir would soon secure its place among the top 50 tourist destinations in the world.
While five countries, namely China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Indonesia, and Egypt, were unable to participate in this summit, the youth of Kashmir remain confident that this gathering will pave the way for an increased influx of foreign tourists. The summit witnessed the participation of 61 delegates from 29 countries.
Furthermore, on May 22nd, the delegates were warmly welcomed by Kashmiri women upon their arrival at the airport. After the first day’s meeting, they had the pleasure of visiting Dal Lake, where they relished the serene beauty while seated in the iconic shikara boats. Notably, apart from the foreign delegates, renowned South Indian actor Ramcharan Teja also graced the event with his presence.
Ramcharan referred to Kashmir as a magical place, recalling his numerous visits since 1986. His early trips, accompanied by his father, allowed him to explore enchanting destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg. In 2016, he returned to Kashmir for a film shoot, further strengthening his bond with the region. As a special treat, he enthralled the delegates by dancing with them to the tune of his popular movie RRR’s song, “Natu-Natu.”
The G20 Summit serves as a platform for global leaders to engage in discussions, negotiate agreements, and issue joint statements that shape global economic policies and strategies. As the host country of the summit rotates among member nations, various meetings and side events are held alongside the main summit. This international gathering provides a valuable opportunity for world leaders to address key challenges, foster cooperation, and promote sustainable and inclusive growth on a global scale.
The G20 Summit’s conclusion in Kashmir was not only marked by productive discussions but also by the vibrant cultural exchange and immersive experiences that allowed delegates to appreciate the region’s beauty and heritage. It is hoped that the summit’s positive impact will contribute to the growth and development of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, attracting a greater number of visitors from around the world.