Press Release: Connecting Europe at high speed: recent developments in the electronic communications sector

The importance of investment and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for further growth and jobs in Europe is highlighted in a communication adopted by the Commission on 3 February 2004 in the run up to the Spring 2004 European Council. It underlines the importance of the electronic communication sector for the health of the European economy and its key role in boosting productivity. Further growth will be driven by the provision of new services over high-speed fixed and wireless networks making use of broadband and 3G mobile communications, while policy makers must do more to create the conditions for faster investment. The report singles out the implementation of the new regulatory framework for electronic communications, action to extend broadband coverage in underserved areas, stimulating demand and the successful role out of third generation mobile communications as top priorities. This should be supported by the on-going mid-term review of the eEurope 2005 Action Plan.

http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/eeurope/2005/doc/highlights/whats_new/sector_com.pdf http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/eeurope/2005/doc/highlights/whats_new/sector_com.pdf

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