Today, barely more than a decade after its first commercial incarnation, it is difficult to think of a policy domain that is not affected by the Internet.
The Internet and the constellation of information technologies it connects are viewed as essential ingredients in addressing some of the world's most pressing policy issues: sustainable and increasing economic growth, aging societies, environmental management, energy efficiency, the eradication of poverty and many more. The implications for economic and social development are far-reaching and profound, including for the next several billion users.
For these reasons I am delighted that the Future of the Internet Economy will be the subject of the first OECD Ministerial Meeting ever to be hosted in Asia.
Taking place in Seoul, Korea (17-18 June 2008), the Ministerial will examine the implications of the rapid growth in use and reliance on the Internet for our economies and societies as well as discuss the policies and practices needed to guide the future of the Internet economy.
The Ministerial is ideally placed to build the international co-operation needed to take advantage of the opportunities enabled by the Internet economy. Ministers from OECD as well as many non Member countries, together with all other stakeholders, will strive to articulate a collective vision of a desirable future economy and society supported by the Internet.

Realising this vision will, more than ever, require action by all stakeholders and increasing cross border co-operation, which is at the heart of the OECD’s mission.
I look forward to personally welcoming you to the OECD Ministerial Meeting on the Future of the Internet Economy.