China boycotts G20 meeting labels J&K 'Disputed Territory'

China has expressed its opposition to hosting a G20 meeting in the disputed region of Kashmir, stating that it will not attend any meetings held in such areas. In response, India has asserted its right to hold meetings on its own territory and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace on the border for normal relations with China. However, despite China's objections, the 3rd G20 Tourism Working Group meeting is scheduled to take place in Srinagar from May 22-24, with increased security measures in place.

This event holds significance as it will be the first major international gathering in Jammu and Kashmir since its special status was revoked in 2019 and it was divided into two union territories. Around 60 delegates from G20 countries are expected to participate, although the number is lower than the initial estimate of over 100 delegates. Turkey has reportedly decided not to attend the meeting, and Saudi Arabia has not yet registered for the event. The city of Srinagar is currently under tight security arrangements, with the deployment of Marine commandos, also known as Marcos, and National Security Guards (NSG) to ensure comprehensive security coverage.

The Marine commandos are responsible for securing Dal Lake and the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), the venue for the G20 meeting. The NSG commandos, along with local police and paramilitary forces, are conducting area domination exercises, including searches at Lal Chowk and on houseboats, which are renowned for their wooden structures and intricate carvings, representing the cultural heritage of Kashmir. The G20 event in Srinagar aims to showcase the tourism potential of the region and convey its integral connection to India, with the participation of G20 member countries viewed as an endorsement of India's position. Given intelligence suggesting the possibility of terrorist threats to disrupt the G20 event through major attacks, extensive security operations are being conducted. The Indian Army, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Jammu and Kashmir Police are collaborating to prevent any such incidents and ensure the safety of the gathering.