It is a problem which, if unresolved, will be felt on two levels. On the national level, people face disruption in their daily lives. Energy supplies, supplies on supermarket shelves, public transport and health care will all be affected. This is in itself a major challenge. December 1998 distribution, telecommunications and defence technology.
International cooperation is crucial to minimize the impact on cross-border activities.
And so, on behalf of the United Nations, I commend the initiative of the Informatics Working Group in organizing this event. As we stand on the threshold of the new millennium, your efforts are an example of how international cooperation is more indispensable than ever in managing the global issues of our time. Let us spare no effort in meeting that challenge head-on.