G20 Meeting in Srinagar | Showcasing Kashmir’s Tourism, Culture & Pashmina

Srinagar proudly hosted the third G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting from 22 to 24 May 2023, the first major international event in Jammu & Kashmir since 2019. Over 57 delegates from G20 member countries attended the three-day event, while China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia stayed away.

One of the cultural highlights was the delegates’ visit to the historic Nishat Garden, set against the majestic Zabarwan mountains. Women delegates in vibrant Kashmiri costumes clicked pictures among blooming flowers and terraces in the backdrop of clouds and a soft drizzle, enjoying the unique charm of the Valley.

Only a select group of well-known personalities from the fields of tourism, craft, and heritage were invited to the prestigious event, making it an exclusive platform that highlighted the best of each sector. Among them was Mr. Shahid Ahmad Shah, CEO of Kepra.in, who was specially invited in recognition of his family’s remarkable contribution of over 60 years to the preservation and promotion of the Pashmina craft. His presence symbolized the deep-rooted heritage of Kashmiri artistry and its global significance.

Adding to the cultural experience, Shahid Ahmad Shah, CEO of Kepra.in, was present to gift stoles to the delegation. This gesture not only highlighted Kashmir’s centuries-old craftsmanship but also positioned Handicraft as a symbol of Kashmiri heritage on the global stage.

The high-profile event, conducted under tight security, was a milestone for Kashmir. It reinforced the region’s importance in India’s G20 Presidency and showcased Kashmir as a hub of tourism, culture, and luxury craftsmanship.

The Srinagar G20 meet was more than a diplomatic gathering—it was a celebration of Kashmir’s timeless beauty, heritage, and global significance.