Following the unanimous adoption on Friday by the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly, of a resolution approving the initiative of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali to proclaim 2010 International Youth Year, the spokesman for the Presidency of the Republic issued the following statement:

" Tunisia has welcomed with satisfaction and pride the unanimous adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in its 64th session held on December 18, 2009, of a resolution approving the proclamation of 2010 "International Youth Year: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding."

This resolution puts into effect the initiative launched by President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali, on November 24, 2008, to proclaim 2010 International Youth Year and to organize a World Youth Congress during that year, under the auspices of the UN.

On the occasion, Tunisia reiterates its thanks to all regional and international bodies that supported this initiative leading to its unanimous adoption by all members of the General Assembly.

Tunisia welcomes the call launched by the UN body to all member States, specialized agencies and UN Funds and Programs to make the most of this international year, hold events and achieve its objectives aimed at spreading the noble values of peace, freedom, solidarity, progress and development in the world.

Being at the origin of this initiative, Tunisia will strive to contribute to the success of the International Youth Year, nationally, regionally and internationally, starting from its experience in this field and the importance it attaches to youth in its policy and guidelines.

Accordingly, Tunisia expresses the hope that the international community and specialized organizations combine their efforts to ensure the success of the World Congress which is an excellent opportunity for dialogue between all components of world youth."