Northern Ireland’s centenary programme marking the anniversary of the state’s foundation will champion young people of the future, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.
It will also pay tribute to those who worked tirelessly to support the region during the pandemic, he added.
Plans for 2021 include a major business showcase in London, a £1 million Shared History Fund, an ambitious programme for young people, tree-planting projects, academic and historic events and an international church service for all denominations.
Mr Johnson said: “2021 marks 100 years since the creation of Northern Ireland, which has paved the way for the formation of the UK as we know it.
The son of murdered solicitor Pat Finucane has welcomed a decision by the Council of Europe to reopen his father’s case.
John Finucane, Sinn Fein MP for North Belfast, said the decision to reopen examination of the case by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) was a “hugely significant move”.
The 47-nation council, which oversees the implementation of ECHR judgments, has also called on the UK authorities to step up efforts to conclude all legacy killing inquests within five years.
The Council of Europe has decided to reopen its investigation into the murder of Pat Finucane in North Belfast in February 1989 (PA)