Youth forum promotes cultural diversity, peace

A youth forum aiming to promote cultural diversity and world peace opened in southwest China Wednesday.

The first Asia-Pacific Youth Dialogue, held in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, drew more than 200 young participants from 46 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

"Participants will discuss ways to protect human dignity and avoid wars and disasters, so as to create a peaceful world," said Ou Minxing, director of the UNESCO Beijing Office.

There are 718 million youths in Asia, and they are important for building peace in Asia, she added.

Recommendations from the forum will be presented to regional leaders attending the Asian Civilizations Dialogue Forum planned for 2017, according to the organizer.

The three-day event was organized by UNESCO, the National Commission of China to UNESCO, and Perfect World, a private company.

(APD)