10: Internet
High-speed Internet for all. Other Information:
High-speed Internet connections promote rapid technology diffusion, which in turn creates demand for innovative products and
services. Equipping Europe with this modern infrastructure is as important as building the railways in the nineteenth century.
To boost Europe's lead in fixed and wireless communications and accelerate the development of high value-added services, the
Commission and Member States should work with stakeholders to develop a broadband strategy to accelerate the up-grading and
extension of networks. The strategy will be supported by public funds in order to provide broadband access to under-served
and high cost areas where the market cannot deliver. The aim should be to reach 100% coverage of high speed internet by 2010.
In addition, and also with a view to upgrading the performance of existing networks, Member States should promote competitive
investments in fibre networks and endorse the Commission's proposals to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. Using the
funding mentioned in action 5 above, the Commission will channel an additional € 1 bn to these network investments in 2009/10.
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