Brussels, 03/06/2015 (Agence Europe) - The United States will work with the European Union to consolidate transatlantic trade links and, thus, welcomes the European Commission's digital strategy, Catherine A. Novelli, US under-secretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, has made clear.
Novelli was speaking on Tuesday 2 June at a round-table discussion of the Lisbon Council reflection group on Transatlantic Views on the Digital Economy and the Future of Internet Governance. “We believe so strongly that a strong, single digital EU market that promotes growth, freedom and the free flow on knowledge (…) will strengthen transatlantic ties and the world economy”, she stated. With regard to Europe-United States data flows, she said she expected an agreement with the EU on Safe Harbour “very, very soon”. “We are very optimistic that we are going to be able to come to an agreement soon”, she stressed.
With the right policies in Europe and in the United States, the digital economies on either side of the Atlantic can develop and prosper. Novelli argued that four key points will allow this objective to be achieved: flexible interoperable standards, efficient data flows, expanded high-speed internet access and internet-friendly trade agreements.
Flexible interoperable standards: technical solutions agreed by all the parties and standards that ensure the interoperability, security and portability of digital devices are essential for the growth of the digital economy in Europe and in the US.
Efficient data flows: the free flow of data enabling the delivery of such things as online shopping, social networks and online messaging is also essential. However, issues around data security and privacy have to be addressed to provide reassurance to consumers and companies. Consolidation of the Safe Harbour agreement is key here.
Expanded high-speed internet access: huge disparities exist on internet access across the globe. There is a direct link between connectivity and the social and economic development of societies. The EU and the US must devise plans in order to extend high-speed internet access around the world.
Internet-friendly trade agreements: one of the objectives of commercial treaties - including TTIP - is the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, and this includes for digital goods. Well-crafted treaties will allow SMEs to start up and prosper. (Isabelle Lamberty)