POLICY STATEMENT OF CYPRUS
BY DR. STELIOS HIMONAS, DIRECTOR OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS, MINISTRY OF
COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKS, HEAD OF DELEGATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
Mr. Chairman,
Honorable Ministers,
Distinguished delegates,
First, let me on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus and the
Cyprus delegation, express as others have already done, our thanks and gratitude
to the Government of Morocco for hosting this Plenipotentiary Conference and
congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, on your election.
Mr. Chairman, so far, the ITU has proven that it is fully capable of meeting
new challenges. Even though the road may have been rather long and perhaps
difficult, the Union has met the expectations of its member states. We are
confident that this forward looking and positive approach will continue, in
order to face the extraordinary challenges that lie ahead.
The electronic communications sector is currently one of the fastest growing
sectors of the world economy. Technological advancements in telecommunications,
media and information technologies aim at improving the quality of life and the
efficiency of social and economic activities.
In order to cope with the challenges that are already ahead of us, the ITU
needs to adapt its policies and practices to the new realities. We must ensure
that the benefits of technology are available to all, at affordable prices.
Special programs for small and for developing countries, as well as for the
poorer classes in all countries, must be strengthened in order to establish a
single and homogeneous information society.
The above technological revolution caused policy makers to develop new
strategic approaches. Nations throughout the world are abolishing state
monopolies. They are establishing regulatory regimes that are designed to foster
competition and to create a favorable climate for investment. As a result,
numerous private players have entered the market and state organizations are
being privatized. We believe that the ITU must address the needs of these market
players. Their inclusion in the process and the efficient adoption of standards
will promote innovation and high quality services.
Of course, all of the above cannot be achieved without strengthening the
financial base of the Union.
Mr. Chairman,
Cyprus is at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. Joining the telecoms
revolution, the Government of Cyprus is taking steps in transforming the Island
into a regional telecommunications hub and business center, taking advantage of
its geographical location, satellite communications infrastructure and submarine
cables.
Mr. Chairman,
During the course of the coming weeks, the Plenipotentiary Conference will
deliberate and take decisions on many important aspects of electronic
communications, which will reflect the changing needs of the sector.
A lot of hard work lies ahead of the distinguished delegates assembled in
this hall and I am confident that, through your wise guidance and counsel, this
Conference will succeed in carrying out its difficult task in an equitable
manner and for the benefit of all nations.
Thank you Mr. Chairman,
And thank you all for your attention
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