Islamabad: March 8, 2015; The Commonwealth of the 53 nations, spanning five continents of the world, provides a unique combination of a rich diversity of cultures and a promising convergence of opportunities. It is thus no wonder that despite the bitterness of the colonial days, the founding fathers of this family of nations valued the mutual bonds as capable of brining 'a touch of healing' to the management of contemporary world problems.

 

Adaptability, understanding and mutual respect are the hallmarks of our community. What is more, adherence to universal rights and commitment to people’s democracy is our common heritage, which we are determined to pass on to our next generation as our proud legacy.

 

This calls for promoting an all-inclusive democratic culture, which enables testing of fresh ideas, listening to new voices and applying new approaches to ever-emerging issues. Only then can we keep the Commonwealth “young and fresh”.

 

An informed, committed and capable youth is an asset. Their involvement is democratic institutions is a powerful influence for a bright future. We must, therefore, reach out to the youth for their progressive involvement.

 

At the 61st Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference Islamabad, planned to be held for the first time in Pakistan, we are determined to engage more and more young people to be at the forefront in the organization and deliberations of this important parliamentary moot.