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“Youth: Dialogue and mutual understanding”
Mr. President,
I take this opportunity to convey on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the people of Norway on the terrorist incidents of last Friday. Such despicable acts only strengthen our resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Pakistan aligns itself with the statement delivered by Argentina on behalf of the G 77 and China.
Today’s meeting assumes a special importance in view of the myriad of problems besetting humanity. Hunger, disease, climate change, terrorism, unfulfilled promise of disarmament and multiple global crises all combine to conjure up a depressing picture. Only through dialogue and mutual understanding can we work in harmony to realize our common objectives. The theme of this meeting, therefore, is most apt.
Mr. President,
Pakistan fully supports educating youth about the ideals of peace, justice, tolerance and solidarity to lay the foundation of a peaceful world and to achieve the objectives of progress and development.
Mr. President,
With a population of over 173 million, Pakistan is the sixth most populous country in the world. An estimated 104 million Pakistanis are below the age of 30. This youth bulge carries challenges and opportunities. Our youth are our greatest resource.
In order to unlock the true potential of youth, the Government of Pakistan has taken several steps and initiatives to enable our youth to fulfill their role in Pakistan’s socio-economic development. The National Youth Policy, formulated in 2008, aims at empowering the youth as well as providing them with economic opportunities by integrating various youth programmes at both the federal and provincial levels. The Policy lays a special emphasis on addressing the needs of young women and youth with disabilities. In addition, the National Internship Program which, through paid internships, enable fresh graduates to work in different public sector organization to increase their employability.
Also worth mentioning is the National Vocational & Technical Education Commission to strengthen younger workforce through mobilization of funds and technical training, sponsored by private sector and civil society organizations.
Mr. President,
Recent events in many parts of the world show that youth are the catalyst of political and social change. The voice of young women and men will have to be heard and respected. Their expectations and aspirations will have to be met by involving them in the decision making process and allowing them to shape their own future and that of our world.
While the primary responsibility for ensuring youth development lies with individual States through developing comprehensive policies and strategies, international cooperation remains a helpful tool to harness the potential of our youth especially by ensuring equitable distribution of global resources and promoting non-discriminatory policies.
I thank you Mr. President.