Srinagar, Oct 16: A two-member British High Commission delegation met Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma here today and discussed the overall situation in the state, an official spokesman said. The delegation, led by first secretary-political Sarah Lampert, held talks on various issues, including cross-border terrorism, role of army in combating militancy, removal of people's alienation and progress in the prestigious Jammu-Baramulla railway project during the 45-minute meeting, he said. Sharma apprised the delegation, currently on a four-day visit of the state, about the latest security situation in the state which, he said, had improved considerably ever since the PDP-led coalition government came into power. He told the delegates that with the improvement in the situation and relaxed atmosphere, the valley witnesses a heavy rush of visitors and pilgrim tourists this year after a gap of nearly 13 years, the spokesman said.
However, Pakistan was continuing aiding and abetting militancy in the state and had not appropriately responded to the peace initiative of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he Deputy Chief Minister said.

He complimented the central government for providing liberal financial assistance and special packages for the speedy development of the state, particularly to combat the problem of unemployment among educated youth.
Bureau Report