STATE TIMES NEWS
SRINAGAR: Delegates attending the G20 event here later this month will act as brand ambassadors for Jammu and Kashmir and its tourism at the global level, boosting local businesses, an official said on Friday.
The third G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting will be held in Srinagar from May 21-23.
Tourism Secretary Syed Abid Rashid Shah said, “The G20 event is a great opportunity for Jammu and Kashmir and its tourism — directly and indirectly — as well for the other connected sectors like handicrafts, handloom, hospitality and trade.”
The delegates will act as ambassadors of Jammu and Kashmir across the world as a global tourist destination, Shah added.
Speaking to reporters after inaugurating hot-air balloon, cycling and trekking activities at Zabarwan Park, Shah said such activities will act as added attractions for tourists.
The launch of such adventure activities is a prelude to the main G20 event, the tourism secretary said.
Shah said a cyclothon in which most of the participants are from government schools has also been started, adding that such events will be scaled up in the future so that tourists and locals enjoy adventure tourism in the Union Territory.
Enthusiastic school children from government-run schools were present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Abid emphasized the immense opportunities presented by the upcoming G20 Tourism Working Group meeting, stating that the event is an opportunity for all of us to promote Jammu and Kashmir Tourism on a global scale and showcase our beautiful region to the world.
“It has the potential to increase international and domestic tourist footfall,” he said.
Envisioning the significant economic impact, he further added that the G20 event is set to propel Jammu and Kashmir’s economy by leaps and bounds, benefiting sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, trade, travel, and, of course, tourism.
“With over 150 foreign and national delegates participating, this event provides an unparalleled global platform for Jammu and Kashmir to demonstrate its potential, with the delegates acting as ambassadors for our region,” he added.
He also commended Director Tourism Kashmir and his team for their relentless efforts in organizing these remarkable activities.
He expressed his appreciation for their commitment to creating additional attractions for tourists, with initiatives like the hot air balloon ride further enhancing the allure of the picturesque city of Srinagar.
Earlier, speaking at the launch of tourism related activities, Director Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq said that the event marked a significant step towards enhancing the region’s tourism offerings.
He said that the series of pre-G20 activities in Srinagar are not only set to captivate visitors but also serve as a testament to the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of Jammu and Kashmir.
“As the G20 event approaches, the region eagerly awaits the opportunity to showcase its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality to a global audience,” he added.