Real Time Communications (RTC) of Seattle, in partnership with Vision Investments of Amman, Jordan, has established a Jordanian company, Levant Communications Group (LCG), to develop a fiber-optic network linking Jordan and Lebanon. LCG is now raising additional equity capital to pursue and develop its first information communications technology infrastructure project in the region.
The Levant Transit Fiber Network (LTFN) is the initial phase of a regional transit fiber-optic network that will ultimately connect Aqaba, Jordan to Beirut, Lebanon and points in between. It involves building, operating, and managing a high-capacity, international fiber-optic network within and across Jordan. The network will provide telecommunications transit—or backbone facilities—for international carriers as well as licensed regional and local services providers.
“This project is vital to support Jordan's goal of becoming a center for information and communications technology,” said Jim Miller, RTC president and LCG director. “It requires substantial development of infrastructure and support services both for local and international users. It also defies the notion that a ‘fiber glut' is present in the global communications market.”
An extensive feasibility study financed in part by the US Trade and Development Agency and RTC, indicated a need for a high-capacity fiber-optic network to link the eastern Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. This network will supplement growth in global communications networks between the US, Europe, India, and Asia.
The study concluded that existing networks between Europe and India are at or near capacity in contrast to “overbuilt” routes in the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Projected demand for capacity on this route is expected to be very significant over the next five to seven years. The LTFN will be a key element of the infrastructure to accommodate this need.
A Free Trade Agreement signed in October 2001 provides substantial incentives for companies doing business between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the United States. “If Jordan wants to make a quantum into the twenty-first century economy, it must increase affordable broadband connectivity within the region,” said Rudain Kawar, LCG director and prominent member of the Jordanian private sector.
The Levant Transit Fiber Network will play a vital role in providing a fiber transit link for international and domestic data communications carriers through Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. It will offer an alternate route for transit traffic now carried through the Gulf of Suez as well as capacity expansion for new networks planned to transit from Europe to India and Asia.
RTC develops custom communication infrastructure projects in emerging and underserved economies. RTC's mission is to assist its clients in building superior broadband communication networks, facilities and centers.
Vision Investment is part of The Kawar Group of companies. The Kawar Group has business interests in information communication technology, shipping, mining, investing and tourism. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
