Srinagar: As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for a new chapter in its political landscape, CM-designate Omar Abdullah shared his reflections and aspirations ahead of his swearing-in ceremony. Speaking to the media, the former Chief Minister highlighted his unique position in the region’s history, noting, “I have some strange distinctions. I was the last chief minister to serve a full six-year term. Now, I’ll be the first chief minister of the Union Territory of J&K.”Abdullah, leader of the National Conference (NC), also expressed optimism about the future of Jammu and Kashmir, hoping for the restoration of its statehood. “The last distinction, as in the one of serving six years, I’m quite happy about…I hope that the status of a Union Territory is a temporary one. We look forward to working in cooperation with the Government of India to resolve the people’s problems, and the best way to do that would be to start by restoring statehood to J&K,” he said.The remarks come at a crucial time for the region, which has seen significant political and administrative changes since its bifurcation and reorganization as a Union Territory in August 2019. Abdullah’s comments signal the National Conference’s continued stance on restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood as a vital step toward addressing the aspirations of its people.As he prepares to take office again, Abdullah’s tenure as the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory is expected to be closely watched, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about the future political status of the region.