Mobilink, Pakistan’s largest cellular network wins 3G license

Mobilink, a wholly owned subsidiary of Global Telecom Holding S.A.E (“Global Telecom”) and part of the VimpelCom group, was announced as one of the winners of the 3G spectrum auction conducted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (“PTA”) at a formal ceremony held on April 23, 2014. Under the terms of the auction, Mobilink won 2×10 MHz spectrum at 2100 MHz band with a total price of USD 300.9 million. High speed internet services on Mobilink’s 3G-ready sites will be rolled out according to the timelines defined in the license agreement by PTA. The license is valid for a period of 15 years. Rashid Khan, President and CEO Mobilink commenting on the success said, “The acquisition of the license is a testament to the commitment that Mobilink and its parent company VimpelCom has made to Pakistan to bring the best voice and data services and seamless connectivity through cutting edge technology. As we roll-out NGMS services on our network, we will ensure that our customers continue to enjoy the best EDGE services on more than 9000 cell sites across Pakistan.” Commenting on the role of government and the regulator he added, “This auction will go a long way in bringing Pakistan at par with technology and data services in the global market. I would like to congratulate the PTA, Ministry of IT and Ministry of Finance for facilitating a transparent and successful bidding process.”