New Delhi: In the first endorsement of the
improved situation in Jammu and Kashmir by a European country,
Germany on Monday issued a fresh travel advisoroy saying the state
was "considerably" calm and foreigners were generally not the
direct target.
An amended advisory issued by German Foreign Office said
the Kashmir conflict had in recent decades led to violent
clashes and numerous bomb attacks with many casualties.
However, "the situation has now calmed down
considerably. Foreigners are generally not direct target," the
new travel advisory said.
The advisory of German Foreign office is a major boost
to the state government's efforts to revive tourism in the
pictureque state and was welcomed by Chief Minister Omar
Abdullah.
"I am very grateful to the German Ambassdor and his
government for this pragmatic decision. It corrects an
injustice that has been done to the state for years where an
advisory issued in early 90's has continued in spite of a
dramatic improvement in the situation.
"I hope that other European countries and the US will
follow the lead of Germany," Omar told PTI in his reaction.
German Ambassador to India Thomas Matussek had during a
visit to Srinagar last month, said he had gone to assess the
situation and look at the possibility of modifying the travel
advisory.
Meanwhile, talking about Jammu, the advisory said "the
security situation is generally stable," adding
"unpredictable" clashes between demonstrators and security
forces could take place and hence suggested taking prior
information and to avoid large gatherings.
On Ladakh, it said trekkers are strongly advised to seek
advice regarding the choice of trekking routes locally by
trusted and knowledgeable local guides.
PTI
First Published: Monday, July 25, 2011, 18:48