Damascus, June.30 (SANA) Syria’s Communications and Information Technology Minister Abdul Salam Haykal said that the agreement with Zain Group was the, culmination of a transparent institutional process and a rigorous professional evaluation of competing bids, following the settlement of the legal dispute with MTN Group, which paved the way for open competition among international telecommunications companies.
Speaking during the ceremony announcing Zain Group‘s award of Syria’s new mobile operator licence, Haykal said the telecommunications sector constitutes a cornerstone of modern life and that the government is working to develop it into a engine of economic activity and the knowledge economy, while creating an environment conducive to the return of skilled professionals and investment.
He added that the new mobile licence, based on fifth-generation (5G) technology, represents the largest investment in Syria’s mobile telecommunications sector after years of limited investment.
Zain Group Chief Executive Officer Bader Nasser al-Kharafi stated that the company’s partnership with Syria is built on long-term commitment, trust, investment and sustainable development.
Al-Kharafi said Zain will support Syria’s digital transformation by developing digital infrastructure and strengthening national capabilities.
He described the company’s entry into the Syrian market as more than a business expansion, calling it a strategic commitment to contributing to Syria’s economic development and investing in its people.
Al-Kharafi added that Zain aims to help position reinforce Syria as a regional digital gateway, strengthening the digital economy, attracting investment and creating new opportunities for digital and commercial connectivity.
“Our most important investment in Syria will be in the Syrian people and national talent,” al-Kharafi said. “We will empower young people, promote knowledge transfer and create sustainable career opportunities in line with Zain’s strategy of purposeful growth and sustainability.”
A/Dh
