• Goal regarding Internet Access was achieved two years before expected
• Economies promote the implementation of safe networks for minors

Arnon Tubtiang, Delegate of Thailand and Chair of the 38th Telecommunications and Information Technologies Working Group stated that the main APEC region goals are to reach the “universal access” (or access for all) to wideband by 2015, which will optimize the transmission speed, information processing and the closing of business in the Asia-Pacific region; as well as the “universal access” to Internet. This goal was achieved this year, before 2010, as it was expected.

He also said that among the new approved projects in the working group, there are initiatives to promote a safe Internet environment for children, a better bilateral cyber climate, a better security in network structure, the future implementation of a less expensive and effective international roaming service (capacity of moving from one coverage area to another without interruption in the service or loss of connectivity, among others.

On his turn, Luis Tsuboyama, Gender, SME and Telecommunications Director from APEC Secretary, Singapore added that the Telecommunications Group also aims to strengthen the network and information infrastructure, based on the regional cooperation and the application of development strategies that reduce the digital gap among the 21 Member Economies.

Likewise, he said that regulatory reforms, information protection, training of professionals in telecommunications and new technologies and the use of these on-line systems in health projects were also part of the Asia-Pacific Delegates discussions.

The Information Technologies and Telecommunications Working Group was created in 1990 and constitutes one of the groups with more members. It is comprised of the areas of Liberalization, Security and Prosperity and Development of Information and Communication Technologies.