This prestigious event is a firm fixture in the industry’s diary and I was impressed by the high quality of speakers and delegates in attendance. The high-level opportunities for networking are absolutely vital, given how telecommunications is becoming increasingly entwined with adjacent sectors and industrial policies at large. Never has a more holistic view of the challenges facing the industry been required — and this was amply met by a wide-ranging forum program that produced rich debate and telling insight. For those of you who attended the event, I hope my thoughts help you crystallize your own point of view. For me, the key messages revolved around two issues. Firstly, we must consider how new infrastructure can build value for both the individual and communities, whether local, national or international. Secondly, we must understand how telecoms lies at the heart of a step change in socio-economic progress and environmental sustainability, whether in emerging markets that are now the industry’s growth engine or more mature markets where innovation is no less important. The sheer diversity of attendees makes International Telecommunication Union (ITU) events what they are. As such, it is vital that, as an industry, we continue our efforts to widen the availability of communications, recognizing the key role to be played by new and significant stakeholders in our sector’s growth. Vincent de La Bachelerie Global Telecommunications Leader, Ernst & Young