A US diplomats are actively engaging with political leaders in Kashmir. On Tuesday, the delegation met with Sajad Gani Lone, president of the People’s Conference, at his residence in Srinagar.
The delegation included Minister-Counsellor for Political Affairs Graham Mayer, First Secretary Gary Applegarth, and Political Counsellor Abhiram Ghadyalpatil. During the meeting, a broad range of issues were discussed. Ashraf Mir, the party spokesman, was also present.
The day before, the US diplomats had met former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his Gupkar Residence. Abdullah urged the diplomats to reconsider the travel advisories and ease restrictions on visits to Jammu and Kashmir. Lok Sabha member Syed Ruhullah Mehdi also attended this meeting.
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The delegation also met Junaid Azim Mattu, the former Mayor of Srinagar. Mattu, who has previously met with the diplomats, discussed Srinagar’s transformation, tourism prospects, and investment opportunities.
Graham Mayer last visited the Valley in August 2023, meeting with Lt Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar.
This visit is part of a broader diplomatic outreach to engage with all political parties and assess the situation ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. It follows the fifth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.
The US had issued a Level 2 advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, along with Manipur, on July 23. This advisory recommended that US nationals avoid travel to these regions, as well as areas affected by Naxalite activity.
Historically, US diplomats have also engaged with separatist leaders during periods of heightened violence in Kashmir. This current visit continues that pattern of diplomatic engagement in the region.