aiming at developing wider learning and mobility opportunities for young people as well as measures addressing the specific circumstances of groups at particular risk, such as minorities. In our external action we also have a strong emphasis on youth, including in the EU Global Strategy. EU financial instruments, particularly in the area of development cooperation, have a strong focus on youth and on the promotion of inclusive societies. In relation to the role of minority youth in promoting peace and stability, we see inter-cultural dialogue as a particularly important tool in the prevention of conflicts and the promotion of reconciliation and mutual understanding in post-conflict societies. To this end, the EU supports inter-cultural dialogue amongst youth organizations in Europe and elsewhere, through programmes such as the Neighbourhood Civil Society Fellowships and the Young Arab voices programme as well as reconciliation processes involving minority groups... Mr Chairperson, History has shown that the promotion and protection of the rights of persons belonging to minorities contributes to the political and social stability of States. As recognized by UN Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, young women and men can play a positive role in maintaining and promoting international peace and security. They therefore can and should be drivers and agents of positive change in their societies. This is particularly true for minority youth. Societies are diverse, and decision-makers should respect, promote and protect this diversity as well as the rights of youth belonging to minorities when striving to build democratic societies and to implement the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. Thank you. 2