Panama is the scene of the thirteenth session of the Harvard National Model United Nations – Latin America conference for young leaders that, in coordination with the Panamanian Association of Debate, brings together university students and high school students from all over the world.

This important event was inaugurated by the Minister of the Presidency, José Simpson Polo, representing the President of the Republic, Laurentino Cortizo Cohen, this Tuesday 9th in the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino).

With the participation of more than 200 delegates, including students and university students aged 15 to 24, from Mauritania, Mexico, the United States, Colombia, Peru, Honduras, Panama, Brazil, Venezuela, Chile, Bolivia, Cameroon and others, the event marks a significant milestone in the promotion of international collaboration and the joint search for solutions to global problems.

At the opening of this event, Minister Simpson referred to the important date on which the meeting begins: “Today, January 9, is a date that Panamanians remember with respect and gratitude to those who starred in a heroic nationalist event, a sign of the value of young people full of patriotism,” Simpson said.

He added that it has always been youth who act as a spearhead in the most significant social transformations in history, “they were young people like you, interested, participatory, conscious and empowered.”

“Today, young people are the pillar that sustains society. The future of humanity depends on the energy, ideas and inexhaustible contributions of youth. Therefore, it is very important that everyone has the opportunity to study and work on what they like, what they are passionate about,” said the minister.

Among the speakers were Maruja Gorday de Villalobos, Minister of Education; María Inés Castillo, Minister of Social Development and Juana Herrera, Minister of Women.

Founded in 1955, a decade after the creation of the United Nations, the National United Nations Model of Harvard (HNMUN) is the largest, oldest and most prestigious conference of its kind, composed of Harvard university students, brings together more than 3,000 students and professors from colleges and universities around the world to simulate the activities of the UN.

The thirteenth version of HNMUN sessions that offer a unique opportunity to experience the challenges of international negotiation and diplomacy, are held in Panama until next Saturday the 13th.

Throughout the conference, young people will get information about the functioning of the United Nations by actively participating in the resolution of global issues. Participants will work with hundreds of other university students motivated by common goals, such as promoting international awareness and generating consensus.