ABSTRACT
In terms of distribution of and access to information technology there are considerable disparities between the North and the South. In South-South co-operation, information technology is a basic factor. Information technology and development have shown to form an uncomfortable partnership. "Telematics" merges telecommunications technology with electronic data processing technology and has facilitated the development of transborder computercommunication systems. "Telematics" blurs the distinctions between conmunication-over-a-distance and data processing. The costs involved for telecommunication channels and terminals would be covered by the US Government. A basic condition for telematics is the presence of a reliable and universal electricity supply, a reliable und universal telephone service, and a reliable and universal maintenance service. Telematics will be used primarily to promote industrialization in urban areas. Its "urban bias" will tend to connect such urban-centered industries and thus provide advanced information services to privileged recipients.
