Next week, once again, our region will be the focus of discussions concerning the Internet. Latin America will host its second IGF (the first one was held in Rio de Janeiro, in 2007) in João Pessoa, the beautiful capital city of Paraíba. At a glance, Wikipedia describes João Pessoa as the place "where the sun firstly rises in the Americas", the furthest eastern point in the continent. It is here where, very soon, we will be meeting old friends and discussing over our next steps, always looking towards the future.
The post of my colleague Baher Esmat introduces a complete view of the discussions related to ICANN during IGF 2015. It is worthwhile including it in our agenda. For Early Birds, our suggestion is that they participate in the local training workshop - Pre-IGF 2015 - on November 6, from 02:00 pm to 06:35 pm, at Espaço Cultural José Lins do Rêgo. We will be together with ISOC, FGV Direito Rio, CGI.br and the government of Paraíba to rev up our engines and present the main challenges to be considered at the IGF.
On the official agenda, our region shall gather at the workshop "Through the Looking Glass: enhanced cooperation in LAC", promoted by LACTLD, LACNIC and ICANN. This workshop will be held on November 13, at 11:00 AM. You may participate wherever you are: whether in João Pessoa or from your home, via remote access.
During coffee-breaks, come and visit ICANN's stand to chat with Alexandra Dans, Rodrigo de la Parra and myself. We'll have colorful brochures to give away and we'll treat you to our local infusion - cold tererê - prepared by our cherished Natalia Enciso. Nothing compares to a good Paraguayan mate for coping with the hot weather of Porta do Sol. See you soon!
