2Connect to host the first 'Middle East Network Operators Group' meeting in Bahrain

As well as bringing together operators to develop awareness of new technologies and products, MENOG I will also offer network engineers and other technical staff the opportunity to share their experiences and knowledge, and identify areas for regional cooperation.

MENOG I will be modeled on meetings held by NANOG (North American Network Operators Group) in North America, and SANOG (South Asian Network Operators Group) in the South Asian region. These non-commercial meetings work as educational and operational forums for the coordination and dissemination of technical information related to the backbone of enterprise, networking technologies and operational practices. SANOG along with the RIPE NCC, an independent, not-for-profit membership organisation that supports the infrastructure of the Internet through technical co-ordination in its service region, are providing invaluable support to the MENOG I meeting in Bahrain.

'2Connect is proud to spearhead a project such as the first MENOG meeting in our region. We consider there is an imminent need to create forums that bring together operators from the Middle East to discuss relevant topics. At the same time, continually training the regional workforce, our most valuable asset, is the only way for regional operators to succeed in a global market,'

mentioned Fahad AlShirawi, Managing Director, 2Connect.

MENOG's meeting agenda will include presentations, tutorials and workshops to discuss implementation issues that require community cooperation. Main topics will be related to: Network expansion, Broadband deployment, Scaling wireless network in the desert, amongst many others. Support for this non-profit forum will come from sponsors and donations from both vendors and members.

'Following on from three successful RIPE NCC Regional Meetings in the Middle East, this first MENOG provides a valuable forum for encouraging dialogue on the issues affecting the regional Internet community,' said Axel Pawlik, Managing Director, RIPE NCC. 'The RIPE NCC is pleased to offer its support to MENOG I, and we are looking forward to a productive first meeting in Bahrain.'

'We encourage all operators to participate in the first MENOG meeting; either as an active participant or by attending all the sessions if possible. We guarantee the meeting will provide an invaluable experience for operators to learn from their peers, as well as develop and advance the skills of their workforce,' said Fahad Al Shirawi, Managing Director, 2Connect.