Brussels, 12/02/2003 (Agence Europe) - In a press release on the state of the electronic communications sector adopted on of 11 February, the European Commission stressed that the EU Union must accelerate the changeover to broadband services and third generation mobile communications. The report identifies broadband and "3G" as the main drivers of the sector. The economic and social benefits they bring make it more urgent than ever that the availability and use of these technologies be improved. Commenting on the adoption of the report, Erkki Liikanen, the Commissioner said, "Today, the Commission has invited all Member States to commit themselves to a comprehensive broadband strategy by the end of 2003. In addition, by 2005 all public administrations should be connected to broadband. And by 2005, our ultimate aim should be that half of all internet connections in Europe are broadband connections. To achieve that, Member States need to implement the new regulatory framework for electronic communications by this summer to ensure a stable and predictable environment for investment. New and attractive content and applications, such as e-Government services, should stimulate investment in new networks. Through an emphasis on research we should ensure the long-term innovative capability of the sector."
This Communication responds to the request addressed to the Commission by the Telecommunications Council last December to report on the state of the sector before the Spring European Council.
The Commission emphasises that secure, multi-platform high-speed connections (broadband) will be the basis of the full development of the knowledge-based economy. What is effectively at stake is the chance to provide new important options in the quality of services provided as well as the social and economic benefits.
To achieve widespread availability of a European world-class infrastructure for electronic communications, this Communication reminds Member States of the need to complete the implementation of the actions already planned.
The Commission, together with Member States and other stakeholders, has started a process to define common objectives. Multi-platform access (i.e. the possibility to connect to the Internet via a selection of means including PC, digital TV, and 3G) will facilitate access to broadband services for all sections of the population, irrespective of their geographical location. Erkki Liikanen said, "The experience of 3G licensing points to the need for increased co-ordination of policy across Europe to avoid the risk that fragmentation across countries delays the introduction of new wireless mobile services. For this reason, the Commission and Member States should work out coherent approaches to deployment deadlines, provide clarification on the issue of network infrastructure sharing, and continue discussions on spectrum usage and trading."
The communication points out that the electronic communications sector is going through an adjustment period, which follows the rapid expansion of 1998-2000. Because of the current postponement in investment, large-scale layoffs, and its importance to the wider economy, it is essential that governments provide an environment that ensures the sustainable development of the sector. According to the Commission this will require: - Legal certainty to create the conditions for long-term investment through the full and timely implementation of the new regulatory framework for electronic communications; - Timely implementation of the eEUROPE 2005 action plan towards the development and the use of a secure world-class infrastructure able to deliver modern public services; - Support and strengthening of current investment in R&D at national and EU level is necessary to ensure Europe's long-term competitiveness.