Dubai, 21 October, 2012: As a member of the ITU Telecom World 2012 International Internet Access Panel, Ahmed Mekky, Board Member and CEO of Gulf Bridge International (GBI), addressed Government ministers from around the world, on the importance of high speed broadband access and the urgent need to address the international 'digital divide.'
Speaking at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Mr. Mekky stated that it was the responsibility of both governments and the telecommunications industry to ensure that no one is left behind in the information age as improved access leads to improved productivity.
"Individuals, communities and businesses should have the certainty of access to high-speed broadband services," said Mr. Mekky. "International connectivity is a key enabler in creating a knowledge-based economy, which will allow a country to broaden and diversify its economic base and compete more successfully in the ever increasingly connected global economy."
"The role of Government is to create a framework that encourages the required investment and stimulates demand. Taxation is part of that framework. Taxation policy can be either an enabler or a barrier to investment. Governments should not look at the short-term revenue generation gains from high taxation, directly or indirectly, on telecom operators, but instead, by creating a favorable taxation environment they can realize the potential for national wealth creation through the ongoing investment in universal access to high speed broadband connectivity and open access to international connectivity" he added
The GBI cable network went live earlier this year as the highest capacity and most geographically comprehensive in the MENA region, and the first within the region operated on a carrier-neutral business model.
Outside of GBI, Mr. Mekky plays an active role in the global telecoms industry. He is the co-chair of the SAMENA Subsea Working Group, and a member of the Board of Governors of the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC)
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About Gulf Bridge International
Gulf Bridge International (GBI) is a private company dedicated to connecting all the nations of the Gulf region to one another and to the rest of the world, using the latest fiber optic technologies. The GBI cable is developed and owned by GCC investors who are building this strategic infrastructure to serve the entire region. GBI intends to be the carrier's carrier of choice for traffic to and from the Gulf, facilitating social and economic growth in the region. GBI's cable system will provide telecom operators and other communications companies, both in the region and globally, with greater choice, value, diversity and resilience. For more information, please visit www.gbiinc.com
© Press Release 2012
