Srinagar, Nov 29 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, inaugurated the Kashmir chapter of the International Club SKAL on Saturday, according to government officials.

With this launch in Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took a pivotal step towards enhancing global tourism connections and increasing the international presence of the region's tourism industry.

Officials mentioned that this initiative is set to create new opportunities for sustainable tourism, fostering international partnerships and promoting long-term growth, while further integrating Jammu and Kashmir into global tourism frameworks.

During the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that SKAL's fundamental values align closely with the spirit of Jammu and Kashmir.

"If you examine SKAL and the tourism landscape in Kashmir, the synergies are obvious. The term SKAL is of Nordic origin, translating to good health, friendship, long life, and happiness," he stated.

He pointed out that the founding principles of the organization reflect universal human aspirations, transcending mere financial success.

"An organization that embodies these four essential attributes is not focused on profit or mundane issues. These are the wishes we hold for one another - good health, friendship, long life, and happiness," he remarked.

The Chief Minister highlighted that SKAL's motto of "business with friends" embodies the camaraderie within Jammu and Kashmir's tourism sector.

"Many of my colleagues in the industry may be competitors, yet they maintain their friendships. They gather, share meals, and respect one another, which truly reflects the essence of SKAL," he noted.

Underlining the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism, CM Omar Abdullah affirmed that tourism should evolve in ways that safeguard both people and the environment.

"If tourism is neither responsible nor sustainable, it won’t endure. A primary focus of our recent undertakings has been to make tourism more accountable and sustainable," he added.

The Chief Minister also announced plans for the development of nine new tourism destinations in the region as part of a major project requiring substantial investment.

"The foundation of this initiative is sustainability - environmentally responsible progress that includes local communities. Any tourism endeavor that fails to benefit locals is bound to falter," he emphasized.

Reflecting on the resilience of Jammu and Kashmir's residents despite ongoing challenges, he expressed, "We are nothing if not resilient. Yes, there is darkness, but it won't last forever. Winters are temporary; they give way to spring. My wish is that this spring lasts for many years."

Commenting on past fluctuations in the tourism sector, he stated, "We have experienced numerous ups and downs in Jammu and Kashmir's tourism. Now, I wish for you to witness only an upward trend."

"The formalization of the relationship between SKAL and Kashmir Tourism today will be mutually beneficial for both SKAL and the local tourism industry," he remarked.

He expressed gratitude to SKAL International and its leadership for selecting Kashmir for this new chapter, hoping it will mark the beginning of a fruitful and lasting collaboration.

"I anticipate this will be a wonderful start to a new relationship, and I hope to host such events repeatedly in the future. Your presence has been a source of encouragement," he concluded.

Prominent attendees at the launch included MLA Tanvir Sadiq, SKAL National President; Sanjeev Mehra, SKAL Director; NSN Mohan, along with several SKAL members, tourism industry stakeholders, and senior officials.

During the event, board members and founding members took their oaths, followed by ceremonies for pinning and certificate presentations.