The first numbers of CATEL, to function as CDMA operator, will start from 200

As APA reports, their non-geographical zone code will be "40" and the Company will cover 80% of the territory of the country by the end of 2007. All city region centers and cities will be included into the network. The CATEL network currently covers Absheron peninsula, Baku, Sumgait, Ganja, Shamkir and Nabran.

It was informed from CATEL that, the business plan of JV for 2006-2007 had already been approved. Necessary equipments are purchased for implementation of this plan. Works are carried out for establishment of equipments in 6 more places.

It should be noted that, the "Azerphone" JV (GSM operator) founded by "Aztelecom" JV (10%), Siemens (30%) and two British companies (60%) and "CATEL" JV (CDMA operator) were granted licenses for providing cellular communication services according to the decision of the board of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technologies held on December 28 last year. Azerphone is expected to start operation in 6 months.

"Azercell" JV and Bakcell Company operate as GSM operators in Azerbaijan at present.