Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar

Srinagar, May 27: Dr Farooq Abdullah, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and president of the National Conference, reiterated on Tuesday that dialogue—never war—is the path to resolving disputes. Speaking at the serene Pahalgam resort, he lamented that advocating talks too often attracts baseless accusations of being a “foreign agent.”

“I am proud of my country,” Dr. Abdullah declared. “We’ve witnessed countless conflicts—from Ukraine to Palestine—yet none have been settled by force. Only by sitting down and talking can we find lasting solutions.”

Highlighting the tranquility and clean mountain air of Pahalgam, he invited visitors to experience the valley’s reprieve from the 37°C heat elsewhere. “Here it’s a soothing 25°C—perfect for soaking up nature’s beauty,” he said.

After spending the night in the hill station, Dr. Abdullah enjoyed a round of golf on Pahalgam’s scenic course, underscoring the region’s safety and appeal to tourists.

His visit coincides with a landmark cabinet meeting chaired by his son, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, also held in Pahalgam. This session—the first outside Srinagar or Jammu since Omar Abdullah assumed office in October 2024—is intended to send a clear message: Kashmir remains open, secure, and eager to welcome travelers.

The chief minister will also consult with local stakeholders to boost the area’s beleaguered tourism sector. Pahalgam’s hotels have sat largely empty since the April 22 Lashkar-e-Taiba attack that claimed 26 lives—including 25 tourists—until swift Indian Armed Forces strikes in response.

By choosing Pahalgam for both his personal visit and the special cabinet meeting, the Abdullahs aim to demonstrate confidence in Kashmir’s peace and the power of dialogue over discord.