For the second consecutive year, Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has supported the participation of a group of ten Pakistani students in the International Youth Forum that took place from 21 to 28 July at LakeSeliger in Russia.

More than 1000 students from over 60 countries took part in the forum which is organized annually by the Russian Federal Agency on Youth Affairs.  The forum aims to provide an intercultural platform for the promotion of personal and democratic liberties and recognition of cultural diversity.

Topics discussed included empowerment, leadership, teamwork and team building and embracing diversity. Participants also got the chance to examine some of the main trends in global business, science, culture and mass media as well as discuss solutions to global challenges such as poverty, social conflict and environmental issues.

Amer Khan, Etihad Airways’ Area General Manager in Pakistan, said: ” At the crossroads between east and west, Etihad Airways is well placed to promote cross cultural exchange and understanding between people and nations.

“Supporting and encouraging young people to take part in this initiative is an ideal way to promote cultural dialogue and awareness. We are delighted to support this initiative for the second year in a row and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes and learnings the students will bring back with them.”

Namreen Akhter, one of the 30 Pakistani students attending the forum, said: ” I am honoured to be attending this international forum and to have been nominated, along with three other Pakistani students, as media specialists and youth speakers.

“I am grateful to Etihad Airways for this opportunity that has enabled us to meet and share our experiences with other youth from around the world.”