SRINAGAR: Swiss Ambassador to India H.E. Maya Tissafi held a series of high-level meetings in Srinagar, engaging with Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to explore avenues of cooperation across tourism, agriculture, vocational training and infrastructure development. The discussions reflected a growing interest in leveraging Swiss expertise to support the Union Territory’s development priorities while strengthening bilateral engagement at the regional level.

Officials said the meetings focused on sustainable tourism, horticulture, food processing and agriculture, sectors considered vital to Kashmir’s economic future. The Swiss envoy also highlighted her country’s ongoing contributions in areas such as hydropower technology, high-altitude climate studies, and the construction of tunnels and bridges, underscoring the practical dimensions of Swiss involvement in the region.

During her visit, Ambassador Tissafi also met Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and People’s Conference MLA Sajad Lone. Throughout her engagements, she repeatedly drew parallels between Switzerland and Kashmir, citing the striking natural beauty of both regions and their shared responsibilities in managing fragile mountain ecosystems. Her observations resonated strongly in a region where tourism, climate resilience and sustainable development remain central policy priorities.

Taking to social media following her meetings, the Ambassador described the interactions as productive and highlighted the scope for collaboration across multiple sectors. She expressed pride in the contribution of Swiss companies and institutions to Kashmir’s development, particularly through infrastructure projects, hydropower technologies and collaborative scientific research initiatives.

H.E. Tissafi also reflected on the cultural connections forged through cinema. Referring to iconic Bollywood films such as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Jab Tak Hai Jaan, she noted how both Switzerland and Gulmarg have become enduring symbols of cinematic beauty. Visiting Gulmarg for the first time, she said she understood why filmmakers continue to return to Kashmir’s valleys, while emphasising that the region’s significance extends well beyond tourism and visual appeal.

A key focus of Swiss engagement has been scientific cooperation. The Ambassador highlighted ongoing partnerships involving Himalayan glaciology studies at the University of Kashmir and cloud research collaborations with ETH Zurich. Such initiatives are increasingly important as mountain regions across the world confront the challenges posed by climate change, environmental degradation and disaster management.

The visit also offered an opportunity for the Swiss Ambassador to experience Kashmir’s renowned craftsmanship. She praised the artistry of local shawl and carpet makers, describing their work as every bit as impressive as the Valley’s celebrated landscapes. Her remarks underscored the growing international appreciation of Kashmir’s traditional industries and cultural heritage.

H.E. Maya Tissafi assumed office as Switzerland’s Ambassador to India and Bhutan in September 2024, bringing with her more than three decades of experience in diplomacy, development cooperation and peace-building. Over the course of her distinguished career, she has served in leadership positions across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, including assignments in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. Her current visit signals Switzerland’s continued interest in expanding meaningful partnerships with Jammu & Kashmir while advancing cooperation in sustainability, science and inclusive economic development.