HL/Retreat/YoPS.Decl.(I) Annex 3 Page 3 11. The decision of the Heads of State and Government of the AU to proclaim 2010 as the Year of Peace and Security in Africa gave particular significance to our Retreat. Consequently, we reiterate our commitment and that of our respective organizations and institutions to take concrete steps in support of this initiative to further the objective of a conflict-free Africa. 12. In particular, we stress the importance of the United Nations-proclaimed International Day of Peace (Peace Day) on 21st September, and pledge our full support for the cessation of hostilities in all conflict areas and the consolidation of peace where it has been achieved. We further subscribe to the other objectives of Peace Day as captured in the decision adopted by the 15th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union, held in Kampala, in July 2010, including intensified distribution of humanitarian supplies, materials and services to communities in conflict areas, the observation of one minute of silence for peace across Africa, at 10.00 am GMT, the implementation of humanitarian and other related activities by the armed and security forces, and the teaching of the Make Peace Happen Lesson Plan in all schools on Peace Day or during other relevant occasions. 13. Bearing in mind that the achievement of lasting peace on the continent requires an ever closer coordination of efforts between all stakeholders, at both strategic and operational levels, we encourage the AU to organize another Retreat next year and to institutionalize it thereafter, based on a periodicity to be determined. We further agree to ensure a regular exchange of views and information, as well as close action on the ground, among all concerned, including the establishment, where required, of regional fora of Mediators, in support for peace in Africa. In this respect, we task the AU and the UN, working with the other partners, to submit concrete proposals and recommendations on how best to achieve this objective. 14. We make this call for peace in Africa, and appeal to all stakeholders, including women, youth, the African civil society, intellectuals and the private sector, as well as all international partners, to join and actively support the initiative to make peace happen in 2010 and beyond, for the achievement of peace between nations and non-violence in our homes, communities and schools requires everyone’s involvement and support. 15. We express our sincere gratitude to the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and to the CCCPA, for their generous hospitality and all the facilities provided for the successful convening of the Retreat, as well as to the other partners who contributed to this event, including the HD Centre and the League of Arab States.