Parliament Hosts World Youth Congress Closing Ceremony

7 August 2005

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Barbara Hachipuka speaking for the African delegates

Around 600 young people from all over the world met at the Scottish Parliament on Sunday 7 August for the closing ceremony of the World Youth Congress.

Presiding Officer George Reid oversaw the event, which was held in the Parliament's Debating Chamber.

Delegates from 150 countries including China, India, Uruguay and Tanzania listened as representatives from every continent summed up more than a week of discussions at Stirling University.

They had been debating ways to achieve United Nations goals on sustainability, poverty, education, equality, community and wealth.

Speaking on behalf of the Latin American delegation, young lawyer Fabrizio Scrollini said:

"It is an honour to be here, but also a great responsibility... youth-led activities are the key for development. Global challenges require global responses."

The First Minster, Jack McConnell MSP, was presented with the Congress's outcome documents and action plans, and made a speech praising the work of the delegates.

The ceremony was one of nine parliamentary events this year focusing on issues relevant to Africa.

The World Youth Congress was founded by Peace Child International and this year's gathering was hosted by the Scottish Executive. It was the third time it has convened, with previous delegations meeting in Hawaii in 1999 and Morocco in 2003.

See also: News Release