Nokia has concluded a supply agreement with Future Communications Company International (FCCI) to supply GSM core network equipment to Atheer Telecom for its network in Iraq.  Atheer Telecom, a consortium led by the Kuwait-based mobile operator MTC, won a license last autumn to provide GSM service in southern Iraq, including Basra.  MTC awarded FCCI an exclusive contract for the supply of the Nokia GSM core network equipment for the two-year period of Atheer Telecom's license. 

 

The deal represents Nokia's first supply of GSM equipment to Iraq and its first GSM core network deal with MTC. 

 

Deliveries have already begun, with the aim of achieving the challenging six-month roll-out of GSM in the southern regions of Iraq covered by Atheer Telecom's license. 

 

Under the agreement, FCCI will be providing a full Nokia core network, including the Nokia Connect MSC switch, part of the Nokia Connect GSM solution for new growth markets.  In addition, the Nokia Intelligent Network and the Nokia Management System are included.  Nokia and its subcontractors will handle all implementation work other than site preparation. 

 

"MTC is delighted to continue its relationship with FCCI and Nokia, which has now grown to include the Nokia switching solution, and we are very pleased to be closely involved in such a key milestone in this important country as a new area of operation," says Dr Saad Al-Barrak, Director General, MTC.  "Our experience with FCCI and Nokia in Kuwait and Bahrain has been very successful, and we look forward to working with FCCI and Nokia on this and many other opportunities in the region." 

 

"Nokia is delighted to be working with Atheer Telecom to deliver GSM service to southern Iraq," says Simon Brown, Area Vice President, Middle East and North Africa, Nokia Networks.  "The Iraqi people have been denied adequate telecommunications for too long and we are very pleased to play our part in rolling out a system that will improve their lives.  This will be a challenging project, but Iraq is an untapped market with enormous potential."

 

"FCCI is happy to be facilitating this important deal for Nokia," says Ali Abbas Behbehani, Director, FCCI.  "Our local expertise has played a crucial role in bringing this agreement to a successful conclusion.  We look forward to continuing our warm relationships with both Nokia and MTC."

 

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