Deal is extension of the framework agreement between Nokia and VimpelCom
Under an extension of an existing framework agreement with VimpelCom, Nokia will supply GSM/GPRS equipment for the implementation and development of the Bee Line GSM network in the North-West and Central Regions of Russia.
Under the agreement Nokia will supply switching and radio equipment to the operator, and also provide the services required for commissioning and operating the network.
As agreed, Nokia has begun the delivery of the equipment for the implementation of the GSM/GPRS network in Murmansk and Arkhangelsk.
Strategic cooperation between Nokia and VimpelCom is briskly developing, and the total of the equipment delivery to the Russian operator will be at least USD 60 million in 2004.
“The most important factors for us in selecting a supplier are the reliability of the equipment and the possibility of a speedy deployment of the network due to the dynamic growth of the Bee Line subscriber base,” says Sergey Avdeev, Vice President for Network Development, VimpelCom. “Nokia has time and again proved its ability to meet the parameters set by us, and we are pleased to have them assisting us in the fastest implementation of the Bee Line GSM network in a number of North-West Regions”.
“We continue to closely cooperate with our strategic partner VimpelCom,” says Jonathan Sparrow, General Director, Networks, CIS Countries, Nokia. “The Russian market is strategically important for Nokia, and we see the basic potential for the growth of the subscriber base and network development precisely in Russian regions where VimpelCom is using our equipment for a strategy of fast paced development of its network. VimpelCom is a major player in the Russian market, and we hope for the continuation of mutually advantageous cooperation between our two companies.”