Qatar-based top telecom group Ooredoo Group and Nokia have signed a major framework agreement for advanced mobile broadband network strategy across Mena and Southeast Asia.

Under the five-year contract, Nokia will provide advanced mobile broadband technologies and professional services to help Ooredoo Group supports superior 2G, 3G, 4G and LTE-A networks to offer advanced voice and data services for its customers across its range of mature and emerging markets.

In the renewed agreement, the terms and conditions have been revised to include global best practices in terms of delivery and technology for the benefit of both companies.

Ooredoo has taken the lead in network performance across its footprint, offering 4G+ in Qatar and Kuwait, 4G in Oman, Tunisia, and the Maldives, and launching the first commercial 3G in Algeria and 3G services in Myanmar. Frame agreements like the one signed with Nokia are one of the tools the Group uses to reinforce its leadership position.

Ahmed Al Derbesti, COO of Ooredoo Group, said: “Working with Nokia, Ooredoo has designed and built a range of leading-edge networks that enable us to enrich our customers’ lives. This renewed framework agreement is significant, as it covers the delivery of all the latest technologies and support services helping us further enhance our network capacity and coverage.”

Ashish Chowdhary, executive vice president and chief business officer, Nokia Networks, said: “We value our long-term partnership with Ooredoo, and are committed to helping it provide world-class voice and data services, and meet burgeoning data demand.”

“Our hands-on innovation approach enables mobile broadband networks to deliver gigabytes of personalised data per user per day profitably and securely by 2020. With our latest innovations we will support Ooredoo to prepare for the huge data demand, and provide high-speed data services with improved network coverage, in addition to clearer voice call services to ensure the ultimate personal gigabyte experience.”

Demonstrating the power of the partnership Ooredoo Qatar, Nokia Networks and China Mobile showcased a record-breaking speed of 4.1 Gbps over TDD-FDD LTE at the ITU Telecom World 2014. Supported by the Global TD-LTE Initiative, the speed was achieved by combining TDD- and FDD-LTE spectrums and aggregating 10 carriers with 200 MHz bandwidth.

In Qatar, Ooredoo has also recently deployed Nokia Networks’ high-capacity small cells, which will enhance Ooredoo’s 3G and 4G network for a better customer experience. With the Flexi Zone small cells complementing its existing network, Ooredoo will be able to provide advanced voice and data services to its customers even in the most crowded indoor and outdoor areas.  – TradeArabia News Service