Remarks of NTIA Head Strickling at ICANN/GAC High Level Governmental Meeting

I am pleased to be here today at the third GAC High Level Governmental Meeting. I would like to thank the government of Morocco for the invitation and Minister Elalamy for the hospitality and generosity he has shown all of us. Today in Marrakech, we are at an important crossroads as the stakeholder community completes its proposal to transition the stewardship role of the United States over the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) functions that has existed since the stakeholders established Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) 18 years ago.

2016 marks the final year of the Obama Administration. In our remaining time, we will remain active and engaged around the globe whether it is at ICANN, the IGF, or in any other venue where these issues will be debated and discussed. The OECD Ministerial in June will provide an opportunity to reflect on and assess the OECD Internet Policymaking Principles and their link to the NetMundial outcome document. In conclusion, every one of us has a stake in ensuring the continued growth, job formation and wealth creation that an open Internet brings. I urge you all to work to preserve and grow this vibrant platform of innovation, economic growth and free expression.