His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday directed the government to establish the “We are All Jordan” Youth Commission to enhance young people's role in socio-economic and political plans targeting them.

The King told Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit in a letter that the commission will function under the Communication Council of the “We are All Jordan” Forum.

The forum, which brought together 700 experts, incumbent and former officials and lawmakers, was held in July to set the country's top priorities within the context of a national consensus over issues Jordan should address in order to meet domestic, regional and international challenges. Following the forum's meetings, King Abdullah directed the government to establish the “We are All Jordan” Commission, to follow up on recommendations set by the forum.

The commission comprises representatives of government and civil society institutions.

In his letter to the prime minister, the King highlighted the need for an effective role and participation of young people in all national affairs.

The King said the decision to establish the youth commission was in line with recommendations of the forum.

Members of the youth commission should support youth-oriented programmes and initiatives at the national level.

The aim was to “build a generation of young leaders who are able to take Jordan to advanced stages of prosperity, modernization and development”, the King said.

In addition to frequent meetings and discussions with groups of young men and women, the King was patron of the first and second Jordan Youth Forum in 2003 and 2004.

The King addressed both meetings, stressing the importance of sustaining communication and productive partnership between students and civil society institutions.

The Jordan Times