Tata Communications, QTel talk greater cooperation in Gulf

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Senior officials from Tata Communications held top-level talks with Qatar Telecom officials to discuss cooperation on prospective projects, especially the Indian company's major global cable network project.

Tata Communications CEO Vinod Kumar and Qtel Qatar CEO Sheikh Saud bin Nasser Al-Thani led the discussions as the two companies discussed their existing and future tie ups.

Tata Communications owns and operates the world's only wholly-owned subsea ring around the world, and most recently launched the Tata Global Network (TGN) Gulf cable system with the involvement of Qtel.

"Qtel continues to support Qatar's long-term strategy to transform itself into a world-class hub for ICT, and our partnerships with leading companies like Tata Communications are a key part of that strategy," said Sheikh Saud.

The TGN-Gulf cable ensures that Qtel can manage the growing demand for wholesale voice and data services in Qatar, bringing an important global, high-speed route for data and voice communication, as well as adding greater capability and resilience to network infrastructure.

Covering nearly 20 per cent of the world's Internet routes, reaching over 240 countries and territories, the cable network offers speeds of up to 10G.

Qtel's connection with a global cable network will increase redundancy and reduce the impact of disruptive events such as cable breaks and communication cuts, officials said.

Better broadband penetration and global connectivity for wholesale and retail businesses - notably direct routes in emerging markets in the Gulf region, China and India - will also provide strong incentives for international companies looking to position regional offices in Qatar, they said.

"Qtel's vision and culture of innovation makes it an ideal partner for Tata Communications as we continue on our journey to better connect emerging global markets," said Kumar in a joint statement.