 Dear colleagues, in May, ITU will convene the Fifth World Telecommunication Policy Forum. This high-level international event gives stakeholders from government, industry and the global regulatory community a chance to exchange views on the key policy issues shaping today's fast-changing ICT environment. Organized by ITU, the Forum is open to ICT professionals from all sectors, as well as media and members of the general public. Unlike some ITU conferences, the WTPF is not designed to produce outcomes with the binding force of an international treaty. Instead, it will foster productive discussion and build global multi-stakeholder consensus on constructive ways forward. The theme of this year's WTPF is Internet-related public policy issues. Through an opening strategic dialogue followed by three days of exchange and debate, the WTPF is a tremendous opportunity for all players to contribute their unique perspectives. The preparatory process for the Forum has been inclusive, as usual. It was led by an informal expert group that was open to all stakeholders, irrespective of whether or not they were members of ITU. The Forum will aim to find consensus on the opinions and a final report from the expert group. These perspectives can be used to guide ongoing global ICT policies, regulatory and standardization efforts worldwide. The draft opinions up for discussion in May span topics such as broadband, Internet exchange points, the multi-stakeholder governance model, and the transition from IPv4 to IPv6. As an institution, ITU has proved itself a highly successful, neutral global convener throughout its long history. We are firm believers that only open, transparent and inclusive processes can lead the way to successful policymaking. I hope you will join me in Geneva from 13 to 16 May for this important and stimulating debate.