Brussels, 22/03/2005 (Agence Europe) - Speaking at the European Spring Summit, ETNO (the European Telecommunications Network Operators' Association) called on Heads of State and governments to reconsider the essential role of information and communication technologies in growth and jobs. It pointed out that investments made by telecommunications operators in future technologies, particularly in the use of broadband, as well as the development and commercialisation of products and solutions in areas such as e-health, e-government and e-learning, significantly contributed to economic growth and social cohesion. ETNO underlined that, “ETNO members are committed to pursuing and reinforcing their investments but need guarantees that they will be properly rewarded for the risks they take”. ETNO also pointed out that the Union's priorities should be: the adoption of a “de-regulatory” approach, which took into account market realities and rapid technological development, as well as one that stimulated investment in infrastructure and new services. The association calls on the European Council to take an initiative to promote a “better regulation” initiative that limits administrative charges and reduces the burden on businesses, so that the European market becomes more investor-friendly.