YANGON, Jan. 13 (Xinhua) -- The role of young people in boosting national development and strengthening the peace process is highlighted as Myanmar kicked off the Youth Peace Forum 2026 on Tuesday.
Speaking at the opening event, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Central Committee, said that today's youth are an invaluable human resource for the development of the country.
As the quality, ability, and spirit of young people increase, and as they can think rationally and correctly, they will be able to build the country and society better, he said, adding that by understanding the needs and opinions of young people and exchanging views, the peace process in the country will be strengthened.
The three-day forum aims to promote youth involvement in peace and community building, encourage constructive dialogue, strengthen young people's skills in mediation and responsible engagement, and collect youth input to support sustainable peace, reconciliation, and future nation-building policies, according to him.
There are more than 130 ethnic groups in Myanmar, and the number of young people aged 15 to 35 is about one-third of the country's population.
Therefore, the right thoughts and feelings, beliefs, and perceptions of young people are a major need for the country and an important force in achieving long-term and sustainable peace, he noted. ■