The First Global Forum on Youth Policies has started in Baku.

Speaking to the opening ceremony, the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth Ahmad Alhendawi said the forum brings together ministers, experts and young leaders from many countries, Head of the Socio-Political Affairs Department at the Azerbaijani President`s Administration Ali Hasanov read out President Ilham Aliyev`s message of greetings to the participants of the forum.

Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sport Azad Rahimov said youth policy was among key priorities for many countries. He highlighted the Azerbaijani government`s youth policy. “Azerbaijan has adopted youth-related programs, and instructed by President Ilham Aliyev the government attaches particular importance to developing the human capital.”

The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon thanked – through video conferencing - the Azerbaijani government for hosting the event. Addressing the youth, he said: “We have one message for you: The United Nations is ready to work with you."