The Hope Network held its inaugural meeting led by Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfeeqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, with the participation of ministers, officials, and representatives of youth institutions from around the world.
The meeting highlighted key initiatives and experiences of member states in supporting youth and explored means to strengthen cooperation to create an enabling environment that empowers young people to contribute to building a sustainable future.
Participants underscored the Hope Network’s value as an international platform for exchanging expertise and documenting best practices in youth affairs, positioning it as a key reference for policymakers and institutions engaged in developing youth-focused strategies at regional and global levels.
Khaled Ali Bin Salem Al Senaidi, Assistant Secretary General for Economic and Development Affairs at the General Secretariat the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), conveyed the GCC’s pride in the launch of the network from the Kingdom of Bahrain. He described it as a pioneering initiative that reflects a genuine commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development.
He noted that the network aligns with the aspirations of GCC countries to support cross-border youth initiatives and embodies Bahrain’s leadership vision in investing in youth potential. He underscored the GCC’s full support for the network and expressed hope for strengthened cooperation that benefits youth across the Gulf and beyond.
Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs in the United Arab Emirates, emphasised the UAE’s commitment to partnerships that empower Arab youth and expand their opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society. He noted that the Hope Network sets a leading example of international collaboration in the youth sector.
He also commended the launch of the Hope Network Guide, describing it as a key step in documenting successful youth development experiences and offering a valuable resource for governments to formulate more impactful and sustainable youth policies. He expressed appreciation to the Kingdom of Bahrain for initiating the network.
Fathallah Al Zani, Minister of Youth of the State of Libya, expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s invitation to join the network, describing it as a forward-looking initiative that enhances regional and international cooperation in youth empowerment. He noted Libya’s commitment to fostering effective partnerships that support youth-led initiatives and facilitate the exchange of experiences among member states.
He described the network as a central platform for promoting solidarity, knowledge-sharing, and collective strategies to advance sustainable development goals. He called on all member states to strengthen their collaborative efforts and support initiatives that serve youth across the world.
Konstantina Acheliou, Chair of the Cyprus Youth Council (CYC), said the meeting offered a valuable opportunity to deepen cooperation and share ideas that support youth empowerment. She expressed the Council’s appreciation for being part of a dynamic and inspiring global community.
She underscored the importance of collective action and a shared vision in achieving positive change and reiterated the Cyprus Youth Council’s commitment to supporting joint efforts through its experience, engagement, and dedication.
Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Massad, Deputy Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports, commended the Hope Network for its role as a global platform addressing youth challenges and helping them realise their potential as future leaders.
He noted that Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports has launched various initiatives to support and empower youth, including the Hikayat Al Shabab (Youth Stories) programme, which promotes healthy lifestyles and shares inspiring experiences. This initiative, he added, has led to a marked increase in youth participation across the Kingdom.
Dr. Mohamed Ouziane. Director of Cooperation, Communication, and Legal Studies at Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, said that the Hope Network has effectively noted together leading youth institutions and best practices through its guide.
He emphasised the importance of exchanging experiences and fostering partnerships, especially in enhancing cooperation among entities working in youth development. He also noted that the network’s upcoming programmes would further support its objectives and promote broader international engagement.
Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority (FYA) in the United Arab Emirates, described the Hope Network as a unifying platform that continues to promote international dialogue and cooperation in youth affairs. He said the network offers meaningful opportunities that enhance youth capabilities and create a framework for progressive, knowledge-based youth policies grounded in real-world experiences and successful models.