Houlin Zhao
Re-elected Director of the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau

Four years ago, I shared with you my understanding of the challenges facing the ITU standardization work, and my visions of ITU standardization in the 21st century. I quoted then in my statement five measures: improving working methods and efficiency, strengthening the participation of private sector and developing countries, active cooperation with other ITU Sectors and outside bodies, transparent financial arrangements, and good management of TSB. I promised to do my best and invited you to cooperate with ITU. I am very pleased with the results and progress of our cooperation on these measures. As far as those challenges are concerned, I am realistic that, despite the meaningful progress we have achieved, major challenges still remain.

The difficulties and problems encountered by the IT industry during the recent years do have repercussions on us. However, in my opinion, standardization has always played a key role in making telecommunication accessible to all, thus fostering development and growth in all domains on a global scale. To meet expectations, ITU has demonstrated its ability to face challenges with openness, transparency, efficiency, energy and dynamism, and an active partnership between Governments and industry members. The new environment of ITU standardization work has been promoted with positive results. Strengthening ITU’s pre-eminence and maintaining its leading position in global telecommunication and information standardization of the 21st century will benefit all members and, thereby, the general public. ITU has both challenges and opportunities.

Having been re-elected, I would like to assure you that I will do my best to work with you all to further improve our efficiency, to enhance the Union’s promotion, and to exploit new measures as permitted by the ITU rules so that a more attractive environment will be provided to all players, particularly to those from industry, in order for all to enjoy working with ITU.

To conclude, I would like to express my personal congratulations to the newly elected and re-elected officials with whom I will work closely for the next four years, and my best wishes for Bob Jones, outgoing Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau.