The cyber world is at a crossroad

• Source: Global Times
• [01:28 January 26 2010]
• Comments

But peaceful, harmonious multilateral management of the Internet is the trend, and this cannot be reversed by one country standing against the tide.

While it may be convenient to blame China and developing nations in the name of freedom and free expression, cooperation demands that the US and some Western countries should not resort to double standards to perpetuate the prevailing monopoly.

There should be a case made out for new and effective laws within the UN framework toward a just and democratic order for catering to the needs of disadvantaged countries and regions.

As for China, its rising clout in the emerging information order hinges on how fast and safe it can be on the information highway.

This goes far beyond sharpening its competitive edge in cyber technology and taking the lead to develop the second-generation Internet.

All countries want to forge ahead in the cyber world. The best way forward is through free and fair access to all without the Internet being under the sway of any one country.

In principle, every nation subscribes to this view, but it is in practice that their commitment is tested.