28 January 2010

UNICEF supports launch of Timor-Leste youth parliament

Dili, 18 January 2010 - Secretary of State of Youth and Sports led by Mr. Miguel Manetelu, with support of United Nation Children's Fund (UNICEF) will organize the launch of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament on 18 January 2010 in Saint John Paul II Comoro at 8:30 am.

H. E. Mr. Jose Ramos Horta, President of Timor – Leste and Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste are expected to officially launch the Youth Parliament and deliver their messages to around 150 young people between the age of 12 and 17. The opening ceremony will also witnessed by H. E. Mr. Fernando de Araújo Lasama, President of National Parliament.

The Timor-Leste Youth Parliament is the first in the history of Timor-Leste. It aims to provide a forum for Timorese youth to be part of nation building and their voice heard. It promotes civic participation of young people. The Youth Parliament will also serve as a unique school for future leaders.

The launch of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament will be attended by representatives of National Youth Council (CNJTL) from the 13 districts, civil society organizations and supporters of youth development in Timor-Leste.

"UNICEF is very pleased to be part of the establishment of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament. UNICEF supports programmes that will help achieve the fastest improvements on the lives of Timorese children and youth", UNICEF Representative Mr. Jun Kukita said. "In 2008, we brought UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Jackie Chan to Timor-Leste to promote peace, unity and discipline among the youth. We hope that the Youth Parliament will further stress the critical role of the youth for peace, stability and development of this young nation."

For additional information, contact:

Mary Ann Q. Maglipon, Chief, Communication Section, UNICEF Timor-Leste
HP: +670-7231103 Email: mmaglipon@unicef.org

Antonio Gomes, Communication Officer, UNICEF Timor-Leste (Tetum Queries)
HP: +670-7232441 Email: angomez@unicef.org

http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/MYAI-8247VY?OpenDocument

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