| Dear Colleague, ¡¡¡¡ For the past fifteen years, the tech sectors have been in a state of constant flux, with disruptive technologies, unexpected cycles and emerging markets occupying center stage one after the other. One constant,through the ups and the downs, is the growing importance of ETRE, theEuropean Technology Roundtable Exhibition as a crucial event for the industry¡¯ senior leaders. ¡¡¡¡ Once again, for the 16th consecutive year, we will continue our tradition of gathering several hundred of the most imaginative people shaping our future under one roof. ¡¡¡¡ The consolidation and deconsolidation of technology industries are coinciding with the increased convergence of IT,telecom and consumer electronics. Besides, the unstoppable march towards globalization of assets, resources and innovation add significant complexity to CEOs attempting to hatch bold strategic plans. ETRE has become, according to many executives, aquintessential forum which provides them with key information and insights while they are suiting up for the upcoming battles. ¡¡¡¡ For the second time, we will organize ETRE in a host city a year after the Olympics. The 2005 event will benefit from a world-class infrastructure and boundless opportunities. In Athens, the symbolism of our global objectives and the location could not be a better match. ¡¡¡¡ Here, CEOs and companies which alternatively compete and cooperate will debate over the upcoming trends in venture capital, telecom, wireless, corporate governance, innovation and infrastructure, among other topics. They will share unforgettable moments in this historical location, and birthplace of most of our Western ideals. These exchanges will pave the way for tomorrow¡¯s reality. ¡¡¡¡ It is my honor and privilege to host ETRE once again, and I would like to make a self serving comment. Year after year, hundreds of new friendships, transactions and partnerships have taken root from the face-to-face encounters at ETRE. The extraordinary caliber of the attendance, the quality of the speeches and editorial, and the explosion of ideas that happen here seldom occur anywhere else. We create a special ambiance, where people shelve their usual professional reservations and accept the notion of a free flowing exchange of ideas. I trust you will discover Greece and ETRE, and upon your return you will tell your team: ¡°ETRE is the place where many journeys start.¡± Regards, |