His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday launched the 2005-2009 National Strategy for Youth prepared by the Higher Council for Youth (HCY) to address key challenges facing younger generation and shape a better future for them.



"The council has worked on implementing His Majesty's vision through institutionalizing youth-related programmes and encouraging youth's participation in the country's comprehensive development," said HCY President Mamoun Noureddine.



Noureddine added that priority was given to setting up a national strategy for the youth, who contributed to its establishment through a real partnership with national and civil institutions as well as international organizations.



According to Noureddine, 22 youth centers and seven youth houses were developed, including the creation of the national scout team, youth parliaments, football stadiums and multipurposes sports' halls.



Around 12 youth clubs will be established in the country with the coordination of universities, community colleges and schools, he added.



During the ceremony, King Abdullah honored a group of distinguished and innovative young people.



Yesterday's event was attended by HRH Prince Faisal, Prime Minister Faisal Fayez, Senate President Zeid Rifai, Lower House Speaker Abdul Hadi Majali, the King's Special Adviser Yousef Dalabih, Royal Court Minister Samir Rifai, the King's Adviser Akel Biltaji and other senior officials.