Gulf Bridge International (GBI), the Middle East’s first carrier neutral regional network, said it has signed a multi-year, sole source contracts with Xtera Communications, a global provider of optical networking solutions.

As per the contract, Xtera Communications will supply GBI’s 100G networking needs for terrestrial and upgrades of submarine routes in Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa.

The contract provides Xtera with full turnkey responsibilities. The contract also includes Xtera’s full portfolio of optical networking products.

“Xtera Communications has an impressive collection of technology that allows the firm to address both our terrestrial and submarine network requirements using the same platform at 100G,' said GBI board member and chief executive officer Ahmed Mekky.

GBI, he said, will benefit from their innovative technology and global deployment experience.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to ensure that the Gulf region has the communications infrastructure required to be a strategic commercial hub,” he added.

GBI, he said, was heavily investing to meet the growing wholesale capacity demands of the Middle East by improving network connectivity and geographical reach to the rest of the world.

'GBI is counting on the most advanced optical networking technology developments to deliver new services to existing and emerging regions. The 100G line transmission rate deployment will play a key role in GBI’s service delivery strategy.'

Jon Hopper, president and CEO of Xtera Communications, said GBI was a forward looking company with ambitious network plans that were well suited for its technology.

'Our use of Raman + 100G allows them to increase the capacity of their targeted markets, while simplifying deployments and driving down costs,' he added.

Samih Kawar, chief technology officer, GBI said it was installing one of the most advanced networks to connect Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

'The deployment of Xtera’s technology will reinforce our preeminent position in this market as an industry leader,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service