Ministry of Communications Signs Contract with Ooredoo Group for Submarine Cable

The Ministry of Communications in Iraq has contracted with Qatari Ooredoo Group to land the FIG submarine cable, enhancing internet capacity. This project, extending 2,000 kilometers, aims to connect Iraq to Europe and the Gulf, supporting economic growth and security. Completion is expected by 2027, alongside further collaborations with major global companies.

The Ministry of Communications in Iraq has officially signed a contract with the Qatari Ooredoo Group for the landing of the FIG submarine cable. The Minister of Communications, Hiyam Al-Yasiri, emphasized efforts to enhance state revenues through this strategic partnership. This agreement signifies the installation of Iraq’s fourth submarine cable, showcasing Iraq’s capabilities in telecommunications infrastructure.

During the signing, Minister Al-Yasiri explained that the 2,000-kilometer cable, containing 24 pairs of optical fibers, will significantly enhance internet capacity in Iraq by over 700 terabytes. The cable will establish connections from Iraq through Turkey to Europe, also linking Gulf countries to the global telecom network, with the project expected to conclude by 2027.

This initiative represents just one of several planned projects aimed at reinforcing Iraq’s role as a strategic corridor among the Gulf, Asia, and Europe. Al-Yasiri indicated that these developments are vital for enhancing security, economic stability, and attracting global companies interested in using Iraq as a communications hub.

Nasser bin Hamad Nasser Al Thani, the CEO of Qatari Ooredoo Group, expressed pride in this new partnership, underlining the commitment to improving services and confidence in Iraq’s market. He highlighted the company’s ongoing investments in Iraq’s telecommunications sector and submarine cable initiatives, noting plans for future developments.

Al Thani explained that the growth of Iraq’s telecommunications sector will facilitate advanced services including data centers, submarine cables, and smart AI solutions, aligning with global sector trends. He mentioned that the partnership extends beyond submarine cables to collaborations with global firms like Microsoft and Google, enhancing Iraq’s investment landscape and service quality.

In summary, the contract signed between Iraq’s Ministry of Communications and Qatari Ooredoo Group marks a significant advancement in Iraqi telecommunications. The FIG submarine cable is set to improve internet capacity, bolster Iraq’s strategic position as a regional communications hub, and attract international investments. With the expected completion by 2027, this initiative embodies a comprehensive approach to addressing both economic and technological growth in Iraq, enhancing global connectivity while fostering local infrastructure development.

Original Source: ina.iq