In her welcome address the President has underlined that by participating in the activities of non-governmental organizations and being active in political agenda young people promote positive changes at both the national and the EU level.

"Young people can make their own life initiating positive changes today. Nothing is more inspiring than their success stories - they demonstrate that Europe is a very good place to live, to dream, to come up with daring ideas, and to turn them into reality. Joint efforts by government institutions and young people themselves are needed to bring about positive changes in the life of European youth, so it is crucial to find new solutions. Only you yourselves can build a Europe you wish to live in," the President said.

Special focus in the conference is placed on the youth policy priorities of the Lithuanian Presidency. The agenda involves discussion on integrating young people into the labour market and better coordinating their interests with the needs of employers. Closer cooperation of youth organizations in addressing their relevant issues will be another item featured at the meeting. The participants will explore ways to integrate in the labour market or education system young people who are not in employment, education or training.

According to the President, young people were among those who were hit the hardest by the crisis in Europe. Youth unemployment remains a topical issue for the whole of Europe. At present, 23 percent young Europeans are jobless. Additional funds have been allocated for the employment measures of the young EU citizens in the multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020. Under its current presidency over the EU Council Lithuania will do its best to ensure that these funds result in new jobs for youth.

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