Korek Telecom eyes expansion, growth

In keeping with this goal, Korek has investment plans of a total of $100m for the second phase of its expansion.

The charted plans aim to increase the subscribers' base to a total of 4m with an amount of $300m over the next few years, to increase network capacity by over 2m subscribers, and to provide nation-wide coverage.

Ericsson is the prime equipment provider and systems integrator in the expansion plans, which will provide coverage and capacity in the Central and Southern regions of Iraq. Also included is the provision of a microwave based high capacity National Transmission Backbone linking the major regions.

Focusing on Korek's expansion plans and its partnership with Ericsson, Mr. Sirwan Mustafa President &CEO of Korek Telecom said,

"Korek, a 100% Iraqi mobile company, is currently committed to rapid network growth and national expansion. We continue to invest heavily to fulfill our expansion plans. Our focus is to provide the coverage with a high quality of service. With Ericsson as our partner, we will ensure that we have the technical foundation in place to provide our subscribers the best mobile network in the country."

On his part, Asif Salam, Key Account Manager, Ericsson asserted, "We have made a long term commitment to Iraq and Korek Telecom. Our relationship has evolved over the last five years and the growth has been substantial and we are fully committed to their success."

Stressing on the working relationship between Ericsson and Korek, Tarek Saadi, Head of Account Unit NME, Ericsson, commented: "We are pleased and honored to be Korek's partner in expanding its network. This expansion establishes Ericsson on a national scale with Korek and paves a sound foundation for continued growth in the future. We are looking forward to continue our strong long-term relationship."

A major expansion effort has just been concluded that develops network capacity for the Mosul and Kirkuk regions, in addition to Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaimaniya. Korek Telecom is currently investing in rapidly deploying sites in the Central and Southern regions, with Baghdad and Basra as bases for the expansions. The expansions will provide Korek a firm foundation on which to further continue their aggressive plans for expansion and new services.