PNG embraces Telstra’s move

PRIME Minister James Marape has welcomed the completion of Telstra’s acquisition of Digicel Pacific last week, saying it demonstrates international confidence in the national economy.
He said the government had liberalised the telecommunication market, and evened out the playing field “so that we attract important investments, and build important competition pressure in the marketplace, which translates into low-cost communication charges, and high penetration in a country that remains largely disconnected,” Marape said.
He said Telstra was rated the top telecommunication company in Australia and its acquisition of Digicel Pacific was a “strong vote of confidence in our economy”.
“The acquisition will enable our link to the outside world much faster and deeper,” he said.
“I want Telstra to maintain links all over our country especially in the unconnected pockets of our out-of-reach communities, and to grow those links.
“The completion of this acquisition also presents an opportunity for the PNG stakeholders to work on possible participation in the telecommunication business.”
He urged Telstra “to interface with Telikom”, and under the Telstra PNG subsidiary, PNG stakeholders could be offered up to 50 per cent equity”.
Marape said telecommunication services were critical to PNG’s social and economic development.
“It has the potential to address education and health concerns and will build a strong resilient population who are aware of what is going on,” he said.
“Wherever possible, infrastructure sharing will be encouraged, reducing the need to erect several towers at the same location.
“Telikom will welcome the opportunity to collocate on Digicel infrastructure.”