Vibrant Culture and Meaningful Talks

By Chasfeeda Shah

The G20 Tourism Working Group meeting, spanning over three days, came to a successful conclusion in the picturesque city of Srinagar on 24th this month. This maiden international gathering in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 marked a significant milestone for the region’s tourism and trade sectors. Vibrant Culture and Meaningful Talks

The event, which saw the participation of 61 delegates from around the world, provided an excellent platform for discussions on various aspects of tourism. The distinguished visitors were not only engaged in productive deliberations at the heavily-guarded SK International Convention Centre (SKICC) but also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the area.

From exploring the enchanting Mughal gardens to indulging in a round of golf at the esteemed Royal Springs Golf Course, the foreign delegates were treated to a delightful array of experiences. Additionally, they had the pleasure of embarking on a serene Shikara ride in the iconic Dal Lake, which further accentuated the charm of their visit.

In a remarkable display of unity and wellness, the delegates began their days with invigorating Yoga sessions. This harmonious blend of physical exercise and mental rejuvenation added a unique touch to the proceedings, symbolizing the shared commitment to fostering global tourism.

The agenda of the meeting encompassed crucial topics such as ecotourism, sustainable tourism, and film tourism. The experts and delegates engaged in thought-provoking discussions, sharing valuable insights and experiences from their respective countries. The group expressed their excitement regarding the event, the breath-taking location, and the vital issues addressed during the meeting.

During their visit, the delegates were captivated by the exceptional craftsmanship, intricate needlework, and premium materials showcased in Kashmir. The display served as a testament to Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, leaving the visitors in awe of the artistic finesse and cultural legacy exhibited through these masterpieces.

This gathering provided a significant opportunity for industry stakeholders to offer their suggestions and feedback on the measures necessary to entice filmmakers to explore diverse locations across the country. A draft and agenda for promoting tourism were formulated during the deliberations, which will be finalized during the upcoming G20 ministerial meeting in Goa.

Ensuring the security and safety of all participants was paramount throughout the three-day G20 Summit. The region of Kashmir was enveloped in a comprehensive three-tier security grid, incorporating measures like aerial surveillance drone monitoring. The deployment of the National Security Guard (NSG) and MARCOS (Marine Commandos), among other security forces, ensured a robust and vigilant atmosphere during the proceedings.

As the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar concluded, the city bid farewell to its esteemed guests, hoping that the valuable deliberations and fruitful interactions would pave the way for enhanced tourism prospects in the region. The event served as a testament to J&K’s potential as a global tourism destination, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and efforts to unlock its full economic and cultural potential.