Singapore welcomes Australia's "Youth for the Future" initiative.

As a small country with no natural resources, we invest heavily in our people. We try to maximize their potential. We, therefore, place the highest priority on the development of our youth.

The four areas identified in "Youth for the Future" are in line with Singapore's own plans to make our youth "World Ready", so that they are able to meet the challenges and opportunities of this global age and environment.

The Commonwealth derives its strength from the networks that link its citizens at all levels - political leaders, government officials, business people, professionals, sportsmen and women, and youth. "Youth for the Future", by promoting friendship amongst an important segment of the Commonwealth's membership, will strengthen our grouping.

I wish the initiative every success.