Vodafone Signs 3G Roaming Agreement in Sweden

Sweden's 3G license holder, Hi3G and the incumbent network Vodafone have signed a letter of intent today to conclude negotiations concerning access to Vodafone's GSM network in Sweden, otherwise known as 'national roaming'. National roaming will allow Hi3G's customers to use Vodafone's GSM network in areas where Hi3G lacks coverage.

"We have succeeded in reaching this general agreement on our own without the involvement of a third party, and this amply illustrates our joint willingness to solve some of the major issues faced by our industry," said Chris Bannister, Managing Director of Hi3G.

"We have agreed on the overall plan for the agreement," said Jon Risfelt, Vodafone's President and CEO in Sweden. "I am delighted that we have been able to reach this agreement through commercial negotiations."

Hi3G and Vodafone will commence negotiations as soon as possible. Both parties have agreed that a final version of the agreement should be ready no later than this summer.

Hi3G is owned by Hutchison Whampoa (60%) and Investor AB (40%).'"

Posted to the site on 6th June 2002