Global youth attend forum to discuss development

Youth leaders and experts from around the world will discuss the importance of supporting the development of young people at the World Youth Development Forum being held offline and online in Beijing this week.

The forum, which runs from Monday to Wednesday, is the second to be held, with the first taking place last year.

Losang Jamcan, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, spoke at the opening ceremony of the forum about the need for policies that promote youth development and create a favorable social environment for their advancement.

"We should deeply realize that for a country and the world, it is crucial to listen to the voices of the youth and support their growth.

"We should provide them with education of higher quality, ample employment opportunities and diverse participation channels. By doing so, we can tap into their creative spirit and potential," he said.

Xu Xiao, president of the All-China Youth Federation, said that China's youth have been participating in various aspects of national development, including economic construction, technological innovation, social services and environmental protection.

He said that more than 1.5 million young people have taken part in China's poverty alleviation efforts in rural areas.

"Chinese youth have also been involved in social services. Over 90 million registered young volunteers are active in various fields.

"More than 600 million young people have participated in actions to protect rivers and conserve resources," he said.

Xu Haoliang, United Nations undersecretary-general and associate administrator of the UN Development Programme, highlighted the positive role of young people in driving change and implementing the 2030 Agenda.

"At the UNDP, we recognize and support young people as positive agents of change and partners in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

"Let's remember that young people hold the key to our future. We're here to support them and work with them together for a just, peaceful and inclusive society," he said in a video speech.