Qtel and NSN sign group-wide framework agreement

Qatar Telecom (Qtel) and Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) have signed a framework agreement (FA) to support the development of the Qatari group’s network operations worldwide, covering the supply of mobile infrastructure, including energy-efficient Flexi base stations and other systems, alongside support services. Dr Nasser Marafih, CEO of Qtel, said: ‘This is a partnership for the future, which will ensure the highest quality of network development supporting our strategy for business growth. The Qtel Group is able to deliver world-class services to our customers because of the strong foundations of our network infrastructure, and the support of NSN will provide essential resources as we continue to enhance our operations.’ Rajeev Suri, CEO of NSN, added: ‘We aim to ensure a smooth migration to the next generation of smartphone-ready, valued added services across the group.’ Under the FA, standard terms and volume-based discounted pricing for network equipment will be available to all group companies. The agreement has an initial term of one year and may be extended at Qtel’s option for up to two additional years, although no financial details were announced. Qtel currently owns stakes in 14 companies in the communications sector, operating in 17 countries in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia. Qais Esrawee, head of the Qtel customer business team at NSN, noted that ‘rapid growth across mature and developing markets requires advanced and scalable network infrastructure. That is why we have a dedicated team in Doha who will work with Qtel to streamline the launch of new upgrades across markets to optimise end-user demand.’