Summary of lengthy ChinaOnline article.
Despite this rather confusing picture, there are at least a few things we can say with certainty:
First, that as Zhao Xiaofan, the deputy director of MII's Information Products Division, recently stated, when attempting to clarify Wu's remarks, "the opening of the Internet sector to the outside world is the direction, but there is a matter of timing. It is impossible for China to give full access before it makes sure that its own interests are secure."
Second, Wu's recent remarks, which indicate China's increasing awareness of the significance of the Internet, will trigger more enthusiasm and input by other regulators who do not want to be cut out, and are anxious to grab their share of the growing Internet pie.
Third, significant amounts of capital are urgently needed, and the opening of the Internet to foreigners is inevitable, despite the confusion caused by Wu's "trial ballons." It should not come as a surprise to see Chinese in the future competing to attract foreign funds for their Internet growth.
chinaonline.com
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