ETNO members are confident that the European Commission will work at delivering a sound project on the creation of an investment and innovation friendly single European Telecoms Market, following the indications given by the European Council and the intentions already expressed by the Commission itself, and with the participation of all stakeholders.

"One of the main reasons behind the sector's current revenue decline is the fragmentation of the European market hampering the development by operators of new innovative services throughout the EU. Changes in the market structure are necessary. ETNO therefore welcomes the reference made by the European Council conclusions on the intention of the European Commission to identify remaining obstacles and concrete measures to allow the European operators to build the single market for electronic communications", says Luigi Gambardella, ETNO Executive Board Chair.

In order to overcome the current crisis and regain competitiveness on the global stage, Europe should consider its telecommunications sector as a key asset, and a well-functioning European single market for electronic communications as a driving force. The unification of the market would not only benefit a sector which employs 1.2 million people, but would also positively impact on the economy as a whole. It would also be in the interest of consumers and lead to positive spillover effects for other European businesses.

European Telecommunications Network Operators' Association (ETNO)