RoNet rural broadband venture kicks off

Fixed line incumbent RomTelecom and sister mobile operator Cosmote Romania have launched a rural broadband project to cover unserved areas under the ‘RoNet’ banner, following the pair’s recent selection for the national programme task via a competitive tender run by the government. Romania Insider reports that 783 villages split into seven zones are within the scope of RoNet, which will be financed with European non-refundable funds worth EUR84 million (USD112 million). Reportedly RomTelecom will receive EUR37.2 million for covering four zones and Cosmote EUR27.9 million for three zones). Razvan Cotovelea, Romania’s communications minister said of the scheme: ‘Economic and informational opportunities derived from developing a national broadband infrastructure are unlimited. The development of the rural regions which are targeted by this project represent a safe path towards improving life conditions, both locally and nationally.’