France Telecom may be interested in buying a non-controlling stake in an unnamed Iraqi mobile operator. According to the company’s spokesman, “France Telecom is looking at the matter of a mobile operator in Iraq but there are no plans to take control in the short-term.”
Previously, France Telecom’s new chief executive officer, Stephane Richard, said that expansion in Africa and the Middle East is a priority for the group.
Apparently, the only operator that is looking for some outside cash is Korek Telecom, although it’s in the midst of talks with UAE-based Etisalat. If those talks fail, however, we may see the Orange brand hitting the Iraqi market.
In addition to Korek Telecom, two other players in the county are Zain and Asiacell. Orascom used to be interested and even owned the Iraqna network, but has failed to get an operating license in the last round of auctions. Moreover, the Egypt-based company tried to set up a joint venture with Korek, but that failed as well. Will French be able to do what Egyptians have failed? It remains to be seen…
[Via: CellularNews]