Intel Chairman Addresses United Nations

Intel Chairman Addresses United Nations

- Barrett Outlines Opportunities, Growth for Developing Nations

Acting as the ambassador for the global information and communications technology industries, Intel Chairman Craig Barrett spoke at the opening ceremony of the United Nations World Summit on the Information Society (UNWSIS) about a new era in economic history marked by “ideas as the new source of wealth.”

“Technology enables businesses and individuals to participate in the global information society,” said Barrett, who as Chairman and former CEO of Intel visits more than thirty countries a year. “The world has changed and geography is no longer destiny. Technology enables every child in every small community to have the same opportunity.”

To be competitive in today’s information society, students need to develop 21st century skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration. Intel works with governments and educators to help today’s students develop these proficiencies through its education and digital inclusion programmes in more than 50 countries.

“The most valuable assets in the world today are ideas and the people who create and develop them,” said Barrett. Intel makes significant investments in local companies that enable growth and technology adoption through Intel Capital, the company’s venture capital branch. To further support local innovation Intel has opened Platform Definition Centres based in Bangalore, Cairo, Sao Paulo and Shanghai.

“Infrastructure is the key to connecting people and ideas,” said Barrett. Intel is driving the development and deployment of broadband wireless technologies such as WiMAX to promote an infrastructure that meets the needs of developing nations without relying on legacy networks. Carriers around the world are now deploying WiMAX networks to deliver broadband access to homes, businesses, schools and healthcare facilities.

“Technology empowers individuals, but it alone is not the solution,” said Barrett. “Government and business must collaborate to create the right environment for every economy to thrive.”

Intel, the world’s largest chip maker, is also a leading manufacturer of computer, networking and communications products. Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com/pressroom. Intel is trademark of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. *Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

ENDS

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