Operator corner (3) - 21/10/08

China Netcom and China Unicom complete merger for a value of about $24bn.

Telecom NZ plans to upgrade its 3G services to countrywide coverage by June 2009.

Zong (China Mobile in Pakistan) has expanded its GSM coverage in Pakistan.

Verizon Business expands its presence in India to support multinational companies in the country.

PCCW cancels plans to sell its telecom unit HK Telecom, due to the financial crisis.

Pacnet (Australia) has launched its ADSL 2+ offering using Telstra' s nationwide ADSL2+ network.

Vodafone Australia has pushed back the the launching of its 3G network expansion, due to Ericsson delay.

Hutchison Whampoa has launched its own mobile phone subsidiary, INQ Mobile to develop phones for its 3G networks worldwide.

China Unicom has launched the bidding process for WCDMA equipment procurement.

BSNL will launch its 3G network by January 2009.