When it comes to development of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs), business stands at the forefront – as a dynamic innovator, investor and user. This was the message delivered by Herbert Heitmann, chair of the Commission on E-Business IT and Telecoms at USCIB’s affiliate, the International Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Heitmann, executive vice president, external communications, Royal Dutch Shell, spoke at the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) today in Geneva.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 14th session of the CSTD, Mr. Heitmann said: “From fast-tracking literacy rates to enhancing agricultural productivity, every day the products and services business develops are helping to empower and improve the lives of millions of people around the globe.”
Mr. Heitmann told delegates that when the right conditions are put in place, the private sector can play an important role building infrastructure and delivering required goods.
“Business contributes to establishing enabling environments through education initiatives, promoting innovation and creativity, public – private research and development partnerships,” he said.
UN Under Secretary General’s letter confirms strong business input into Internet Governance Forum preparations
ICC and its Business Action to Support the Information Society (BASIS) initiative have welcomed the recent announcement by UN Under Secretary General, Sha Zukang confirming continued strong representation of business in the Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) that will steer preparations for the 6th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) – an open forum for policy dialogue on issues of Internet governance.
Mr Sha’s letter recognized the proven expertise and balanced representation of Internet stakeholders in the MAG including governments, business, civil society and the Internet technical community. Commending the MAG’s valuable contribution to IGF preparations each year, he said: “The MAG has more than proven its worth and the successful meetings that have been held in Athens, Rio de Janeiro, Hyderabad, Sharm-El-Sheik and Vilnius are [testament] to the work of its members.”
The MAG – a special advisory group to the UN Secretary General – is made up of representatives from all Internet interest groups.
To see a modified list of business representatives of the MAG and to read more on ICC’s website, click here.
To read Mr. Heitmann’s speech at CSTD, please click here.
