A United Nations telecommunications conference in Dubai is debating the future of internet governance, and whether the international body should play a role. (J. Pat Carter/Associated Press)

Major players at a United Nations telecommunications conference, which is debating possible new internet regulations and the international body's role in creating them, are deeply divided.

Ambassador Terry Kramer, the chief American negotiator at the conference in Dubai, said some advocate stronger government roles, but the U.S. wants to leave the internet alone.

Kramer is leading efforts at closed-door talks to block any new UN rules on internet oversight, warning they could lead to more censorship and restrictions around the world.

A reported counter-proposal submitted by the host United Arab Emirates — and backed by Russia, China and others —advocates a stronger government say in internet affairs.

The UN's International Telecommunication Union seeks to wrap up meetings in Dubai this week, but negotiators still appear deeply divided Monday.

The UN talks at the 11-day conference have a wide-ranging agenda, including ways to expand Internet services in developing nations.