Press Release:Joint Statement by Assistant Secretary John M. R. Kneuer and Ambassador David A. Gross on the Second Meeting of the Internet Governance Forum, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, November 12-15, 2007

For Immediate Release: November 8, 2007
Contact: Todd Sedmak, 482-7002 or tsedmak@ntia.doc.gov

WASHINGTON – Assistant Secretary John M. R. Kneuer and Ambassador David A. Gross today released the following statement on the upcoming Internet Governance Forum:

“We welcome the convening of the second meeting of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, next week.  The IGF offers an opportunity for leading Internet experts from around the world to share experiences and visions that support the continued evolution and expansion of the Internet.  The IGF also provides an opportunity to underscore the critical role that freedom of expression and free flow of information play in maximizing the benefits of the Internet.  We also hope that issues regarding the security, stability, and reliability of the Internet are at the heart of issues addressed.  We also look forward to constructive discussions about access to and use of information and communication technologies to advance economic and social development.

“In order for the IGF to realize its full potential, it is important to ensure that all stakeholders from the Internet community continue to participate in this important event on an equal footing, as was the case for the successful inaugural meeting in Athens, Greece last year.  The multi-stakeholder processes that underpin the IGF at every level make it a globally unique environment for an honest and frank exchange of ideas without the pressure of negotiating output discussions or conclusions.  We remain committed to the terms of reference for the IGF as agreed by world leaders at the UN World Summit on the Information Society.

“The promise of the IGF – open and inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders of the international Internet community to discuss critical issues concerning the future of the Internet – is viewed by the United States as a positive development and we look forward to participating in the meeting in Rio de Janeiro.” 

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