On March 22, The World Bank Romania Country Office organized the Youth Open House as part of the global initiative to promote involvement of youth in economic and social life. The event was organized as an informal round-table meeting and was attended by approximately 15 people representing youth NGOs in Romania.

The meeting was opened by James Wolfensohn's address for the young people. His statement was received with great interest by all participants. This message was followed by a presentation of the Youth Development &Peace Network.

Participants expressed the interest in establishing  a Romanian network, as an exchanging information tool, but also as an umbrella for developing joint projects. The Would Bank will continue to assist them in developing this structure.

World Bank Country Manager, Owaise Saadat, gave a presentation followed by an open discussion on leadership and the role of leaders in the future development of Romania.

A brief presentation of the Bank' portfolio in Romania was followed by  a free discussion about the future of Romania, about priorities and possible areas of World Bank involvement in addressing them.

The event ended with a tour and presentation of the Bank's Public Information Center. Participants showed keen interest in learning more about Bank publications and online resources the Center is providing for the public.