Germany offers to help Kashmir in tourism

Germany today offered to help Jammu and Kashmir government in changing the negative perception about the safety of tourists intending to visit the Valley.
The offer of cooperation in this regard was made by Germany's Ambassador to India Michael Steiner during a meeting with Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed here, an official spokesman said.
Steiner, who was accompanied by his wife Eliese, informed Sayeed that Germany officially recommends its citizens to travel to Kashmir.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister discussed with the German Ambassador several issues of mutual interest, especially those related to increasing footfall of tourists to Kashmir from European countries, adopting best practices in solid waste management and developing skills through vocational training.

Sayeed highlighted the need for withdrawal of travel advisories imposed by several European nations on Kashmir as it is as safe to travel to as any other destination in the world.
He also cited many climatic similarities between Europe and Kashmir.
The Chief Minister also referred to the J&K Travel Mart that Kashmir is hosting for the first time since 1988.
"Delegates from 20 countries are participating in the Mart which I think should do a lot in changing perceptions back home on travelling to the Paradise on Earth," he said.