Page 216 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International

telecommunications system capable of promoting development and bridging
the widening gap between industrialized and developing countries.

All major sectors of telecommunications recognize the pivotal role ITU
plays as the forum where intergovernmental, non-governmental organizations
and financial agencies can work together to generate greater resources for
world-wide telecommunication development, ensure that these resources are
optimized and that the collective expertise and know-how present in the
private and public sectors are utilized in the best possible manner for the
benefit of humankind. ITU, and indeed the organizations of the UN system,
are the human "software" that translate political decisions and technological
advances into meaningful realities for all people in this rapidly evolving world.

I am therefore also pleased that this year, the United Nations Office at Ge-
neva is an active participant in the exhibition. Our telecommunications experts
together with Swiss Telecom, ITU and other international organizations are
collaborating fully in the pilot project for the test of ATM services and applica-
tions.

As is increasingly true for all areas of human endeavour, it is only through
improved international understanding and genuine cooperation on a global
level that the growing problems facing our planet can be dealt with in a rational
and meaningful way. Global cooperation in telecommunication is an intrinsic
part of that endeavour. And it is in this spirit of international cooperation that I
extend to you my own best wishes for a very successful event.

Thank you.

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