Welcoming i2010 Conference presenters and delegates to the Olomouc Region , RNDr. Ivan Kosatík, President of the Olomuc Region noted "I am delighted to be able to welcome you to our Region and the city of Olomouc as the host of this important event. The Olomouc Region devotes considerable attention to the dissemination and communication of information through Information Technology. I trust that in addition to meetings and the exchange of information, there will be time for you to experience the innovative projects running in our city. "

Cllr. Rena Donaghey, Chairperson, ERNACT Interregional Management Committee noted "ERNACT warmly invites you to participate at the i2010 for European Regions and Cities Conference, which will showcase innovation in regional and city government, and look forward to the future by identifying common challenges and potential funding opportunities.

This conference will address key Information Society issues in the areas of eGovernment and eDemocracy, ICT Clusters and Inward Investment, Mobility (Wireless and Broadband), and Content and Cultural Heritage, and provide an excellent networking environment for regional and city government, European Commission officials and researchers to discuss problems and new ideas, share knowledge and experience and identify potential partners for future trans-European collaboration. ERNACT hopes that holding this conference in Olomouc, Czech Republic, will encourage strong participation from regional and city government from New Member States and Candidate Countries."

Commenting on the strategic importance of participation by representatives of regional and city governments across Europe, Frank Cunningham, DG Information Society & Media, European Commission noted "The i2010 strategic framework to promote an open and competitive digital economy is an ambitious programme. Its trio of objectives (a single information space, innovation and investment, and inclusion) presents large scale challenges to all regions, and successful implementation depends on concerted action by the Member States and their regions. Pan-European economic growth will only be boosted if these challenges are faced together. The i2010 for European Regions and Cities Conference provides a valuable opportunity for key stakeholders from across Europe to come together to share practical experiences, to identify opportunities for collaboration and learn more about potential funding options."

Encouraging participation from all EU Member States and Candidate Countries, Colm Mc Colgan, General Manager - ERNACT Network, noted "The impact of the Information Society on regional economies is accelerating as we speak. In the next few years, regional and city authorities will come under increasing pressure, through their citizens, businesses and politicians, to develop faster innovation cycles capable of generating new jobs requiring ever new and higher skill levels.

The ability of administrations to utilise the Internet for service delivery will also be a key determinant of regional competitiveness. i2010 is a significant initiative of the Commission to assist regions and cities to meet these challenges, and to develop and combine their resources in broadband, services and content for the benefit of citizens and SMEs. This conference should not be missed by those members of staff responsible for planning and implementing the development of broadband and e-services within their region or city."