The Queen supports efforts to Bridge the Digital Divide

In a letter to Dr David Souter, Executive Director of The Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation, dated 24th August 2001, The Queen wrote:

"I have great pleasure in congratulating the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation on the celebration of its Centenary. The history of the Organisation stretches from the infant days of telecommunications in 1901 to the current era in which information technologies form the basis for much of government, business and domestic life. The Organisation has played an important part in maintaining and developing a world telecommunication network, and in promoting the sharing of experience and expertise between Commonwealth countries. As Head of the Commonwealth, I am pleased that 'Bridging the Digital Divide' is such an important part of the CTO's work today, and I look forward to the continuation of its efforts on behalf of all the countries of the Commonwealth over the years ahead. ELIZABETH R."

to extend the provision and use of telecommunications and other information services; to meet the communications needs and aspirations of citizens and consumers; to support the social and economic development objectives of governments and civil society; and to facilitate the successful development of telecommunications and other businesses.