Jordan’s information technology (IT) sector is set to enjoy major growth as the Kingdom prepares to launch new voice/data services supported by its re-invigorated telecommunications infrastructure, according to president of France Telecom, Michel Bon.
“Jordan is potentially at the verge of explosive technology sector growth,” says president of France Telecom prior to official visit. Bon is set to visit Jordan in early February to meet with top government and private sector officials and to discuss Jordan’s national initiative to embrace ‘new economy’ technology opportunities.
“The telecommunications industry throughout the Middle East is witnessing revolutionary change as the region braces for rapid growth due to the positive developments that have taken place,” said Bon. “Today’s communications capabilities are driving the creation and adoption of vibrant new businesses around the world, and Jordan is now set to capitalize on these new economy opportunities for investment and growth.”
Last year Bon came to Jordan, an important investment market for France Telecom, for the signing of the agreement with the Jordan government for the privatization of Jordan Telecom. During his visit, Bon met with King Abdullah and confirmed France Telecom’s commitment to the Dead Sea Forum where Jordan’s IT initiative received international praise and coverage as well as commitments by a number of international IT companies.
France Telecom’s investment in the acquisition of a stake in Jordan Telecom has led to fast-paced development and growth in advanced communications services in the Kingdom. “Jordan today is on the verge of exciting new opportunities, and we believe that the provision of advanced telecommunications services that meet the requirements of today’s international companies play a major role in both attracting overseas investment and in providing infrastructure that Jordanian companies can use to compete on a global basis,” Bon commented.
Jordan Telecom with an estimated capital of 520 million Jordanian dinars started operation under its new name in 1997 as Jordan's foremost provider of communications services. The company runs the whole nations technological infrastructure, which forms the backbone for ISP's and mobile service providers.
The firm's efficiency and reliability made it one of the most prominent companies in the Kingdom thus paving the way for a true partnership with one of the most advanced Telecommunication provider. France Telecom along with The Arab Bank signed in January 2000, a $508 million deal to acquire 40 percent of Jordan Telecom. France Telecom's involvement in Jordan has already started to transform Jordan Telecom into a benchmark of communications in the region with the announcement of several new services. — (Albawaba-MEBG)
© 2001 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
