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Federal Communications Commission
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Washington, D.C.  20554

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order
constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).



     July 17, 1997

                                  
     STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN REED HUNDT ON PROPOSAL TO AUTHORIZE
            U.S. ENTRY FOR NON-U.S.-LICENSED SATELLITES 


     The review launched today, and the examination of foreign participation in the U.S.
telecommunications market the Commission began in June, reflect our continued commitment to the
World Trade Organization Basic Telecommunications Agreement and a policy supporting open and
competitive telecommunications markets at home and abroad.

     When the WTO Agreement takes effect on January 1, 1998, the competitive landscape for
global communications will open dramatically.  For Americans global competition in
telecommunications means lower prices, increased consumer choice, and the development of entire
new markets.  For other nations the WTO Agreement signifies the arrival of the communications
revolution and access to the tools of the Information Age.  Globally, a commitment to open and
competitive communications markets holds the prospect for fueling economic growth worldwide over
the coming years.

     For all these reasons I welcome today's action and the Commission's efforts to implement
expeditiously the WTO Basic Telecom Agreement.

                               -FCC-