The Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF), which is the first of a series of events that will lead to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) later this month, commenced on Wednesday evening and will run until 23rd November. The opening session was presided over by Prime Minister Lawrence, in the presence of Education, Youth and Employment Minister Louis Galea and deputy secretary general of the Commonwealth, Florence Mugasha.

The forum is being attended by 130 delegates coming from 30 different countries that are all members of the Commonwealth with different cultures and levels of socio-economic development.

The CYF is aimed at giving young people the opportunity to discuss several issues and come up with ideas, alternatives and proposals which will eventually by presented to the heads of government who will be participating during the CHOGM. In the course of the eight-day forum, several important issues will be discussed, ranging from health and sexuality, to good governance and active citizenship, to sustainable livelihoods, youth enterprise and ICT.

During his opening address, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi stated that the participation of youths should be appreciated since they have a vital role in the planning of both the present and also the future of communities, societies and countries.

Dr Gonzi also said that the Commonwealth is not only an important system to promote cooperation between governments of independent states but also cooperation between diverse people. He emphasised the importance of the youths' role in the development of Maltese society and that they have the right and obligation to actively participate in similar activities.

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