Indosat in Cambodia

Indosat in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH (Reuter): The Cambodian government and the
Indonesian company Indosat have signed a contract for a US$15
million joint venture to rehabilitate Cambodia's national
telecommunications network.

The satellite-based network was set up by the United Nations
during preparations for the May 1993 elections and handed over to
Cambodian authorities last February.

The joint-venture was agreed last week between Indosat
president Tjahjono Soerjobibroto and Cambodian Secretary of State
for Post and Telecommunications So Khun.

"First, we will upgrade, install and expand the system to
all 21 provinces, which will take three years," Indosat
representative in Cambodia Iman Budi said in a telephone
interview.

"The joint venture will involve the setting up of a new
company, Camintel, in which Indosat will have a 49 percent
stake," he said.

Once the telecommunication system is operational nationwide,
Indosat will help with maintenance, sales and collection of fees,
Budi said.

The contract runs initially for 11 years, with the
possibility of a five-year extension.