Nokia Siemens Networks and Wataniya Telecom Algerie (WTA) sign a major contract to modernize Wataniya’s core network with Release 4 technology

(16 apr 2008) - Leading telecom operator in Algeria leverages Nokia Siemens Networks solution to provide Next Generation Network services with enhanced operational efficiency

Algeria - Nokia Siemens Networks and Wataniya Telecom Algerie announced today that, WTA will deploy Nokia Siemens Networks’ state–of-the art 3GPP Release 4 mobile softswitching solution. This solution allows Wataniya to immediately reduce operating expenses, while accelerating the deployment of new services to mobile subscribers.

"Wataniya Telecom Algeria (WTA) is happy to extend its cooperation with Nokia Siemens Networks by selecting its MSC Server System for our network growth and modernization," said Joseph Ged, CEO for Wataniya Telecom Algerie. " The development of our core network is crucial to WTA’s future success as our call traffic continues to increase. Implementing Nokia Siemens Networks 3GPP Release 4 architecture will improve our overall network capacity, better utilize network resources and optimize the costs of providing state-of-the-art services to our customers.”

Wataniya Telecom Algerie - Nedjma is the country’s first operator to provide innovative multimedia services. Nedjma is operating a state-of-the-art GPRS/EDGE network, providing advanced wireless voice and data services to a customer base of nearly 5 million users in the Algerian fast growing market.

Nokia Siemens Networks currently has also 190 customers using mobile softswitching in over 110 live networks and is one of the world’s leading enablers of telecom technology.

"We are pleased to have met Wataniya’s demand for a powerful and cost-effective solution to deploy in their network," said Mahmud Awad, Wataniya International Cluster Head for Nokia Siemens Networks. "We look forward to a continued partnership with Wataniya Telecom Algerie, providing world class technology while bringing significant cost savings and a clear evolution in next generation networks.”

Nokia Siemens Networks believes that the future of the communications industry lies in understanding and uniting communities. Driven by a desire to have 5 billion people connected by 2015, Nokia Siemens Networks will have an unparalleled capability to deliver ‘end-to-end’ convergent solutions based on a broad portfolio of fixed and mobile infrastructure products, services and devices.