Young people are the ones who can bring change, innovation, and resilience in addressing these issues
Nusa Dua, Bali (ANTARA) - The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum invited young people to play a role in addressing marine issues, such as climate change and marine pollution.

"Young people are the ones who can bring change, innovation, and resilience in addressing these issues," Deputy for Maritime Sovereignty and Energy Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment Jodi Mahardi stated during the AIS Youth Conference here on Friday.

Mahardi emphasized the need for AIS nations to have sustainable blue economies and good governance in maritime management in order to overcome major issues.

Hence, to this end, he said, the presence of young people is needed to help find solutions and innovations in overcoming these tremendous challenges.

He added that their voices, ideas, and concrete actions can contribute to facing major challenges in marine governance.

A total of 26 young delegates from 26 island and archipelagic countries met at the AIS Youth Conference to present their innovative ideas and solutions for marine issues.

The AIS Youth Conference is being held in Bali on October 6-8, ahead of the AIS Forum Summit on October 10-11.

"We want young people to feel they have the initiatives in the AIS Forum. We want to give perspective on how to participate in the discussions because these young people do not only represent their country but there is also potential for change," he stated.

He expected the AIS Youth Conference to produce a declaration that represents common aspirations among AIS nations as well as a related blueprint for the future.

"This conference will be the beginning of change and a new forum for innovative ideas in protecting the ocean and communities," he remarked.

Indonesia is one of the initiators of the AIS Forum that was formed on the basis of the Manado Declaration on November 1, 2018, by the AIS Forum Ministerial Meeting.

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Translator: Dewa W, Kenzu
Editor: Sri Haryati
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