MTS AND VODAFONE SIGN STRATEGIC DEAL

Lragir.am
15:21:07 – 30/10/2008

The world’s biggest mobile phone giant, Vodafone and the largest
mobile operator in Russia, MTS has inked a strategic, non-equity deal
to share access to each other’s products and services. MTS would
have exclusive access to Vodafone’s products and services and use
its expertise in building third generation (3G) networks and mobile
broadband products. Under the agreement, MTS has exclusive access to
a range of products, services and devices from Vodafone for Russia,
Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Armenia. MTS has 87 million
subscribers, including 60 million in Russia.

Vodafone’s products and services will be marketed in Russia and
the CIS under a co-branded approach. Vodafone will also open a
representative office in Moscow to co-operate more closely with MTS
on future offerings and customer services.

Vodafone’s Chief Executive, Vittorio Colao said, "Our agreement with
MTS is an opportunity for Vodafone to build its presence and work
with the leading operator in these important markets. By combining
the geographical reach of the company’s respective networks, we can
give customers greater roaming capabilities and extended coverage."