Etisalat Group, a leading telecom operator with operations in 19 countries across Asia, the Middle East and Africa, has signed a group framework agreement (GFA) with PCCW Global for voice interconnection. The voice interconnection will access PCCW Global's international IPX network capability which provides guaranteed end-to-end delivery of voice and mobile data services to more than 50 destinations over a private and managed IP network, carried by one of the world's largest private IP backbones.
According to PCCW, Etisalat Group operations will have direct access to PCCW Global routes into many countries around the world. This is via an extensive transmission network that combines MPLS, IPL, terrestrial and satellite links as well as PCCW Global's 50-plus IPX interconnections.
It further said that PCCW Global's customers and partners will benefit from the addition of Etisalat affiliate networks to the extensive list of MNOs that have chosen PCCW Global as a partner.
"This agreement will reinforce our already strong relations with Etisalat by putting more focus on Etisalat's African and Asian operations while demonstrating our determination to turn customers' business goals into reality through communications technology. In this regard, our IPX platform enables development and global delivery of new generation IP-based services such as our HD Video Calling service, with guaranteed levels of interoperability." He added, "PCCW Global serves MNOs with the genuine end-to-end value of IPX over a private and managed IP network, unlike some carriers which use Internet or international long distance links to access IPX platforms."
- Emmanuel Bain, PCCW Global's Vice President for Voice Services in Middle East and Africa
"As a leading regional carrier and the fastest growing telecom operator in Middle East, Africa, and Asia, Etisalat Group is focused on bringing the best connectivity and quality to our customers wherever they may be. This agreement with PCCW Global is a continuation to our efforts to strengthen our offering through the right partnership model which complements both our offerings in various regions especially where we have small and medium sized operations and helps ensure that our customers benefit from global connectivity and experience the best services that they have come to expect from us. Having this group framework agreement will realize synergies among the various Etisalat operations across 19 countries and open the door for further collaboration between Etisalat Group and our selected partners to explore and collaborate on further innovations in our industry."
- Wael Ammar, Etisalat Group, Executive Vice President for Carrier Services
