"The Italian government must work hard to reach a coordinated global solution to the financial crisis," he said.

"Starting from London's G20 summit in April, Italy can play a mediating role among member states," he told Xinhua.

"The Italian government has set a good example by avoiding bail-outs and proposing the idea of European bonds. The solution to the economic crisis must be found at a global or at least European level," he said.

This year the Italian organizing committee succeeded in inviting more than 21 national delegations. Other than the students coming from the G8 countries, there were representatives from China, India, Mexico and Turkey, among others.

Problems in developed countries have a spill-over impact throughout the world, and Italy cannot avoid them alone.

Regarding the Italian economy, Costanza said: "Italy suffers from structural problems, rather than the global credit crunch. The high deficit and debt levels prevent the government from implementing short-term rescue strategies."

The unemployment rate in Italy is expected to increase in coming months. It will mostly hit young people, who are very demanding of the government, Costanza said.

"First, the Italian government must restore confidence without giving in to protectionism by developing long-term measures," he said.

"Second, the government should invest in young people. We ask incentives for youth entrepreneurship projects and youth training to increase job mobility. It's important to focus on the development of specific competence, the world is changing fast. Protective work policies hamper youths from developing the right skills to become players," he said.

"The Italian government must favor international student exchange programs in business. Studying and working abroad gives you a different mind-set," Costanza said.

According to Vicenzo, the Italian government can play a central role at London's G20 summit thanks to "its savoir-faire and art of diplomacy. In good and bad, Italy always finds the best possible solution."

Organized by young volunteers from the host country with the help of national student teams in the other G8 countries, the youth summit is aimed at being recognized as a panel representing the voice of youths to the G8 leaders.

Previous youth summits have been held in Russia, Germany and Japan.

(Xinhua News Agency March 21, 2009)