ITU Telecom Asia 2008 is set to open in Bangkok, Thailand in two weeks. The leading showcase for information and communication technologies (ICT) and the foremost networking platform for policy makers, regulators and the ICT industry from across the Asia-Pacific region will open its doors on Sept. 2-5, 2008 at the Impact Convention Center, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok. A regional commercial hub and ICT growth center, Bangkok hosts ITU Telecom Asia for the first time and offers world-class facilities. Reflecting the importance of Asia in the ICT sector, the ITU Telecom Asia 2008 show floor features the latest technologies and innovations from broadband and Internet services to mobile and wireless, next-generation networks and satellite technologies as well as applications to enhance cybersecurity, improve emergency response to tackle natural disasters and address the global challenges of our times such as climate change. Exhibitors include companies from around the world: Australia, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Germany, France, Hong Kong (China), Netherlands, India, Korea (Rep. of), Israel, Japan, Netherlands, Malaysia, Russian Federation, Switzerland, Thailand, UAE, United Kingdom, and US. The ITU Telecom Forum explores key technologies, policies and applications which drive Asia's ICT sector. Building on the theme “New Generation, New Values”, the forum will focus on the needs and solutions for a new generation of intensely networked users. While addressing global concerns such as using ICT to monitor and mitigate climate change, emergency telecommunications to assist in natural disasters, and enhancing cybersecurity, the Forum will look at the technical and regulatory solutions for next-generation networks and broadband connectivity. The Asian region is a leader in the development of broadband delivered via fiber optic, which is capable of providing ultra high speed Internet access and is essential for supporting the next generation of applications. According to the ITU Asia Pacific Telecommunication/ICT Indicators Report, the region is a world leader in telecommunications and ICT. It has the largest fixed telephone market, with almost half of the world's total fixed telephone lines. Home to over a billion mobile cellular subscribers, the Asia-Pacific region also has the largest mobile market share globally. The report's main focus is on broadband - or high
