Favouring a rethink on travel advisories imposed by several European countries for tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today said the state is "unjustly" compared with conflict zones in other parts of the world, where magnitude of violence is huge.
"We seek your indulgence in changing this negative perception which is taking a heavy toll on our tourism sector, the mainstay of our economy," she told Martin Ney, German ambassador to India.
She said Kashmir can also benefit hugely from German intervention in adventure tourism, where the valley holds great potential, especially in terms of increasing footprint of foreign travellers.
"We look forward to some of your experts coming over and contributing in our efforts to promote adventure tourism big time," she suggested.
Mehbooba urged the international community to recognise the huge potential and talent of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and tap their knowledge and expertise in key areas for a robust growth of tourism in the state.
"I expect major youth-oriented interventions from the international community to give wings to the ambition of our talented youth," she stated.
Batting for greater exchange of ideas between the youth of J&K and those from overseas, Mehbooba said, "our small baby steps need a big push from countries like Germany, which have a wealth of expertise in the fields of skill development, biotechnology, animal husbandry and horticulture."
"Unfortunately, our success stories are sparingly highlighted and even these get drowned in the din of violence as and when it rears its ugly head," she said.
"It is in the interest of both the sides if youth engage and share knowledge and expertise in key areas of skill development, in which Germany has made giant strides," she added.
Describing Kashmir as one of the most beautiful places on the earth, Ney said he is visiting the valley as part of Germany's Management Training Programme, in collaboration with CII (Confederation of Indian Industry).
He said he will be attending an apple clinic with some young entrepreneurs in Shopian tomorrow to see how they can help in transfer of technology and best practises.
