The Chief of International Programme Development with Global VSAT Forum (GVF), Martin Jarrold, commented “The high-seas are a prime means of transporting our globalised trade goods, an important source of vital energy resources and food supplies, and an environment for human leisure pursuits, and therefore freedom and security of the oceans is a 21st Century imperative in the context of the ever-greater integration of the globalised world economy.” Mr. Jarrold, who will also chair the conference, continued “Moreover, our ability to communicate effectively whilst on the ocean surface has become just as essential as when we undertake our economic activities and social pursuits on dry land, activities that are more and more dependent on information and communications technology-related efficiencies aboard vessels on the high-seas.” Following on from these illustrations of the clear and central economic importance of the world’s oceans, and from the central role of cutting-edge communications solutions in maximising the effectiveness and efficiencies of the entire maritime sector, the GVF BM 2009 conference will feature the participation of a wide range of organisations from both the satellite service and technology provider community and from the broadband communications solution end-user community across the maritime industry.
