The advent of broadband has dramatically altered the ICT playing field, creating new opportunities for an ever-growing spectrum of players. The GSR�s new vision for enhanced broadband deployment, which encompasses reduced regulatory burdens, innovative incentives and coordinated efforts, is designed to rapidly unleash commercial broadband deployment opportunities.

"There is not a significant environment on the planet in which broadband internet does not make sense, given the political will to foster an enabling environment," said Hamadoun I. Touré, Director of ITU�s Telecommunication Development Bureau, in his opening address to the symposium. "However, the pace of broadband take-up largely hinges on the regulatory framework."

This year�s GSR agreed to a set of �best practice guidelines� for spectrum management aimed at promoting broadband access. "The 2005 GSR best practice guidelines, endorsed by 120 CEOs and board members of national regulatory authorities are an important contribution to the World Summit on the Information Society," said 2005 GSR Chairperson Mr Ali Ghodbani.