Erkki Liikanen launches the Global Cities Dialogue on the Information Society The European Commissioner for Enterprise and the Information Society, Mr Erkki Liikanen, formally launched the Global Cities Dialogue on the Information Society in Helsinki on 23 November 1999. In his speech, he underlined the importance of regional governments and global cor... The European Commissioner for Enterprise and the Information Society, Mr Erkki Liikanen, formally launched the Global Cities Dialogue on the Information Society in Helsinki on 23 November 1999. In his speech, he underlined the importance of regional governments and global corporations in shaping the face of the Information Society, and described how business and life in Europe is changing as a result of the rapid development of information systems. He warmly welcomed the initiative for a Global Cities Dialogue on the Information Society, and highlighted the protagonist role of city mayors as leaders and catalysts of change and social dialogue. 'Public policies should improve access to information, enhance democracy and social justice, promote employability and lifelong learning, achieve and enhance equal opportunity between men and women. And they should also promote inclusion and support people with special needs or lacking opportunities to improve their position', he said. At the next European summit in Helsinki this December, the Commission will present an initiative to take Europe to the forefront of the Information Society, outlining areas where Europe should focus its efforts, he revealed. He called for solidarity in the dissemination of knowledge and technological solutions at the global and regional scales, and an open and fruitful dialogue between the more and the less developed cities and regions. This, he said, 'will be vital in fighting exclusion and promoting an inclusive and sustainable Information Society.
