ETNO Comments on Domain Name Supporting Organisations applications

["ETNO" <etno@etno.be>]

February 25, 1999

Mr. Mike Roberts
Interim President and CEO
Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
339 La Cuesta Drive
Portola Valley, CA 94028
USA


Dear Mr. Roberts,

On behalf of ETNO, the European Telecommunications Network Operators
Association, I am pleased to attach a statement of support for a DNSO
application to ICANN.

As you know, the European Telecommunications Operators have had an active role in the process of reform of the Internet governance, since 1996.  A number of ETNO Members have
participated in the process of constitution of ICANN as well.  As the Internet is a point of reference in Telecom Operators strategies, ETNO and its Members have a considerable interest in supporting a harmonious and consistent reform of the Internet governance, especially in the management and operation of the Domain Name System, that appears to be
currently the most critical aspect of the management of Internet. The position expressed in this statement is based on the contribution of experts within ETNO, that have attended the processes of formation of ICANN and of DNSO applications. As you will see, although this position is definitely supporting one of the two filed applications (the Washington draft), ETNO also recognises that some issues as proposed by the Paris draft could be taken in consideration and strongly encourages a quick convergence with all the stakeholders.

Yours sincerely,


Jerker Torngren,
ETNO Director

ETNO is an association of 44 major European public telecommunications operators from 33 European countries. Detailed information about ETNO can be found on http://www.etno.be

DNSO for ICANN.DOC