Global operator strategies - 15/9/05

Telmex has launched a NGN network in Chile, and is trying to get a WLL license. In addition, Telmex mobile arm, America Movil has bought Smartcom, a Chilean small mobile operator.

BT sells its about 7% stake in LG Telecom (South Korea).

Saudi Arabia is in the process to liberalize its telecom market, with a World Trade Organization (WTO) accession in sight.

France Telecom increased its stake in SonaeCom (Portugal) to about 24% for € 242m.

Telstra (Australia) should be privatized after Parliament cleared final hurdles for sale of government's 51.8% stake (about $26bn).

Hanaro Telecom and Thrunet (both in S. Korea) will merge operations.

Flag Telecom saw a huge increase in wavelength capacity demand on its trans-Atlantic optical fiber submarine cable (+500%).