Washington, Aug 3 (DPA) The US opposes the United Arab Emirates' decision to ban some Blackberry services because it undermines the free flow of information, the US State Department said Monday.
The UAE announced Sunday that messaging and internet browsing services would be restricted in a ban that goes into effect in October, saying that data being transferred and managed by a foreign entity poses security concerns.
State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said while the UAE has security needs, cutting off the services harms the free flow of information and eliminates an innovative sector of the economy.
"Restricting technologies in the 21st century we think is a move in the wrong direction," he said, adding that the United States is "disappointed at the announcement".