As discussed earlier in the council meeting today, we would move forward to draft a response from the GNSO to the Initial Report from the IDNC (http://www.icann.org/announcements/announcement-01feb08.htm and http://ccnso.icann.org/workinggroups/draft-initial-report-idnc-wg-01feb08.pd...). The Initial Report is essentially a list of questions intended to solicit public comments. The structure of it is divided into 2 main parts: (1) selection of IDN ccTLD string for Fast Track; (2) designation IDN ccTLD manager. At this stage the Initial Report has been posted and the public comment period will close on February 26, 2008, which is less than 2 weeks from now. Another important note is that the first draft of the "Interim Report" which will include proposed answers to the questions is targeted to be drafted by Feb 29, which is also just around 2 weeks from now. Since the connection for remote participation was challenging, would like to also invite people to participate in the drafting team with this email (and to note that I believe it does not have to be limited to council members). Glen will be starting a mailing list for this and will suggest to convene for a conference call next week. So far, from today's discussion, we would be starting a new mailing list with: myself, Avri, Charles Shaban, Cary and Olga, along with some help from ICANN staff. I believe Olof and Liz has agreed, hopefully Tina can join us as well?... I will work to have a first draft of the response based our ccNSO/GAC issues paper response over this weekend. Edmon PS. Also as discussed during the council meeting and hearing no objection, noting also that the deadline for comment on the Initial Report is Feb 26, whereas our next council meeting is scheduled for Feb 28, we will be requesting for an extension of the comment period for a few days. Should such request be declined, we will attempt to complete our response over mailing list and circulating it on the council list for final review so we could submit our response on Feb 26.