Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar

Srinagar, Jun 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday took a swipe at the United States, saying it acts solely in its own interests and does not care about other nations. His remarks came after US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan Army chief Asif Munir for a lunch at the White House.

Speaking to reporters at Srinagar Railway Station upon his return from Jammu, Abdullah said, “The US President is free to decide whom to invite. But it is clear that America does only what serves its own benefits. It has never truly cared for any other country.”

The National Conference leader travelled to Jammu and back on the recently launched Vande Bharat train along with his father, Dr Farooq Abdullah. Praising the train service, he said, “Had the journey not been good, I wouldn’t have returned on the same train. It’s clearly a hit among people, and we want its frequency and capacity to be increased.”

On the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, Abdullah urged an end to hostilities and called for diplomatic dialogue. “The bombing should stop. War is not a solution. Issues must be resolved through talks,” he said.

Speaking about Kashmiri students stranded in Iran, he said efforts were underway to bring them home safely via Armenia, as airports and ports remain closed. “Around 300-400 students are returning today, most of them from Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

Commenting on administrative power-sharing in the Union Territory, Abdullah clarified that the Lieutenant Governor (LG) is responsible for security and law and order, while other governance matters fall under the elected government. “The business rules passed by the cabinet should be signed and returned by the LG to avoid confusion,” he asserted.