The Prime Minister said that Pakistan and United Arab Emirates (UAE) enjoyed excellent brotherly relations, which had been further strengthened by economic co-operation. He said that the auction for 3G Spectrum Technology would increase the broadband connectivity in the country.
While encouraging the Etisalat representatives to participate in the bidding process, the Prime Minister said, "we are very keen to see Etisalat participating in the auction for 3G license spectrum." He pointed out that the government had recently formed an oversight committee comprising people with impeccable integrity and repute to ensure transparency and fairness in the auction process.
Abdul Karim Ahmad Julfar said that Etisalat was a leading telecom operator globally and had potential to invest considerably in the telecom sector of Pakistan. He further said that he saw Pakistan as a huge market. Etisalat, the CEO said, would like to improve the quality of broadband in Pakistan and intended to enhance its operations in the country.
The Prime Minister pointed out that there were some pending issues regarding sale of PTCL to Etisalat, suggesting that Etisalat nominate a team which should sit with the representatives of the government of Pakistan to resolve issues within a specified time frame. The Prime Minister assured that the government of Pakistan shall extend all possible assistance to Etisalat. Those who attended the meeting included Qamar Zaman Kaira, Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Salim Mandviwala, MoS & Chairman Board of Investment and other senior officials of the government.-PR