The European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association recently released a white paper calling for “transformative” connectivity policies to bolster Europe’s competitiveness.
The EU has seen its share of the global telecom market shrink by 10 percent since 2013. To advance connectivity, the association is calling for streamlined, harmonized regulations across all the European countries, increased investment in network infrastructure, and a strong industrial policy based on the need for sustainable connectivity.
“The effectiveness and coordination of different funding programs should be improved and targeted funds for distributed and AI-ready cloud infrastructure, Open RAN and subsea cables should be increased,” according to the white paper “How to Master Europe’s Digital Infrastructure Needs.”
The association also called for the industry to cooperate on a project for distributed AI cloud infrastructure, operator-hosted EU Open RAN labs, joint EU collaboration to govern submarine cables governance, and a transition to a green telecoms sector.
“The next 12 months are vital to set the stage for improving Europe’s connectivity, as our digital infrastructures are meant to benefit European citizens and businesses,” according to the white paper. “Europe cannot wait to bridge its investment and innovation gap. Modernization and simplification of current rules, delivered in a timely fashion, can be a gamechanger for the whole of our economy and society.”
By J. Sharpe Smith, Inside Towers Technology Editor
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