It could be a platform paving the way for a deeper political dialogue and co-operation in the vast fields of business and trade. Cultural co-operation is not only about organising festivals and events or exporting cultural products, but rather working in one of the most dynamic sectors of the information society and the economy. This understanding and respect must also be at the core of the emerging Cyber Age. I personally see the Cyber Age, on one hand, as a mere reflection of the real world and, on the other, as a tool for improving interaction between each other and for learning from one another. The Framework focuses attention on the importance of the peoples, their needs and expectations.
Culture is no longer an elitist business.
In this context, the traditional cultures should not be forgotten, but seen as a valuable and enriching source. Ways and means should be found to preserve them and bring them into the Cyber Age. Ladies and Gentlemen, Technological convergence between broadcasting, computing and telecommunications has resulted in new ways of disseminating information. Both are leading to the creation and supply of new kinds of television services and on-line services. The need for more content to feed the increasing number of delivery platforms and channels has become a distinctive feature of the digital environment, and clearly creates an opportunity for the content industry.