The youth representatives of 17 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies adopted a youth declaration at the closing ceremony of the APEC Voices of the Future 2017 in the central province of Quang Nam on November 10.
In the declaration, the delegates said they believe that they will diminish the disparities between economies, accelerate communication, decrease the cost for new startups, and generate more opportunities for young people through a communication platform.
They proposed facilitating an online platform through which past delegates can mentor and support future delegates as well as a database in which previous declarations, proposals and feedback can be accessed.
They also called upon leaders of member economies to support and consider the recommendations put forth in the annual APEC Voices Youth Declaration.
They also appealed to APEC Leaders to provide youth from the Asia Pacific region with opportunities and platforms to voice their concern on issues relating to education and employment.
To facilitate human resources development in the digital age, the delegates aim to enhance the adaptability, education, and employment through big data and experiences among member economies.
The young delegates believed that educational advancement and equality are essential for sustainable economic development in the Asia-Pacific region.
“Let us work together to foster a new dynamism and a brighter shared future in the Asia-Pacific region,” they said.
The APEC Voices of the Future took place in the central city of Da Nang and the neighbouring province of Quang Nam from November 6-10 on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week, drawing 180 delegates from 17 APEC economies.
Established in 1989, APEC comprises Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam.
It represents 39 percent of the world population, 57 percent of the world GDP and 47 percent of the total trade.-VNA