US Diplomats Meet Omar Abdullah, Discuss Travel Advisories for Kashmir

US diplomats met National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah in Srinagar to discuss easing travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir. The discussions covered various regional issues, with Abdullah encouraging global tourism to Kashmir. Diplomatic visits were suggested to inspire tourist confidence.

On Monday, US diplomats, including Minister-Counselor for Political Affairs Graham Mayer and First Secretary Gary Applegarth, met with National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah at his Gupkar residence in Srinagar. During the meeting, Abdullah underscored the importance of reassessing travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir to facilitate easier access. He encouraged global visitors to experience Kashmir's beauty and culture firsthand.

National Conference Chief Spokesperson and Head of Communications Tanvir Sadiq announced on X that the discussions addressed a wide range of issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir and the broader region. Apart from Mayer and Applegarth, Political Counselor Abhiram was also part of the US delegation.

Present at the meeting was also Member of Parliament and senior National Conference leader Ruhullah Mehdi. The National Conference, through its X handle, shared that Omar Abdullah invited the diplomats to visit Kashmir with their families to build confidence among US and international tourists. The party noted that discussions were part of the larger efforts to ease travel restrictions.

The discussions take place as campaign momentum builds in Jammu and Kashmir for the assembly elections scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1. National Conference plans to contest 51 out of 90 seats, while Congress will contest 32 seats under a seat-sharing agreement. They will have 'friendly contests' in five constituencies and have left one seat each for CPI(M) and Panthers Party. Meanwhile, the BJP announced 16 candidates on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)