Srinagar, Jan 01: National Conference President, Dr Farooq Abdullah, on Thursday expressed hope that cordial relations with neighbouring countries would help overcome prevailing challenges, saying that with God’s grace, better days lie ahead.
Speaking to the media persons, Dr Abdullah welcomed recent diplomatic developments and said he was encouraged by India’s External Affairs Minister attending the last rites of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
He described Bangladesh as an old and trusted friend of India and stressed the need to further strengthen such regional friendships.
Commenting on the difficulties faced by Kashmir’s traditional sectors, including shawl traders and artisans, Abdullah said hardships are part of life but cautioned people against falling prey to divisive and radical mindsets.
He said that certain elements are pursuing dangerous paths with questionable intentions.
Issuing a strong warning, the NC chief said attempts were being made to impose authoritarian systems and extremist ideologies. Drawing a parallel with history, he said such ideologies do not last forever and will eventually come to an end, just as Nazism did. (KNC)