BBC Arabic has signed a new agreement with MSN Arabia, to further expand its presence across the Arab world.

International news seekers can now access BBC Arabic content via the MSN Arabia home page. This will complement the direct access audiences have to BBC Arabic on television, radio, online and on mobile phones.

Over 10 million annual users of the MSN regional portal will be able to access fully-branded BBC Arabic content, updated 24/7, across genres including current affairs, business, sport, science and technology.

'bbcarabic.com has pioneered the provision of Arabic news and information on the net, and we’re proud to extend our services to major portals in the region,' said Hosam El Sokkari, head of BBC Arabic Network.

'The launch of our 24/7 BBC Arabic television channel and streamed content on our website has given Arabic-speaking audiences across the globe the opportunity to get BBC content wherever they are.'

“In this partnership not only will we be achieving success, but we will be providing the Arab world with the content that is really needed, the service that users seek, better solutions, required updates, and most of all better interactivity with the increasing online user experience,” added Mohamed El Sayad, general manager, MSN Arabia.

“The partnership with MSN Arabia is an exciting one. It means that regular visitors to the site have instant, easy access to BBC Arabic content,” stated Simon Kendall, BBC world service head, Business Development Africa and Middle East.

Users of MSN Arabia can find BBC Arabic content by visiting the portal’s home page at arabic.arabia.msn.com.  Each BBC story, published in full on the portal, includes a direct link to bbcarabic.com, where visitors can access further content and interact directly with BBC Arabic.-TradeArabia News Service