Also, I know how hard you have all worked in organizing the NGO and Youth Forum and in making this meeting possible. I am very appreciative of your efforts. Bella worked tirelessly to make sure that everyone ' s voice was heard and the least we can do, is to continue to carry out the legacy that Bella left behind. I know that you will now share with equal enthusiasm this review of the technical and operational experience in the implementation of the Programme of Action. It is true that some of our dreams have been realized, and our commitment is unshakeable, but the end of the road is still some distance away.
Much more work remains to be done.
But I congratulate you on your pursuit, your fortitude and your unswerving vision. Since the ICPD, partnership has emerged as a key process to advance the implementation of the Programme of Action. The participation of a wider set of players is essential to implement the ICPD Programme of Action. In general, in all of these roles, the most productive job for NGOs is to continue to be strong advocates of difficult issues and, where Governments accept, to complement their role in the implementation of agreed goals. NGO involvement in project execution has grown steadily, for example, in delivering services to the rural and urban poor, and to adolescents.