October 10, 2007

The TRA of Bahrain, represented by its General Director, Alan Horne and the TRA of Lebanon, represented by its Chairman and CEO, Dr. Kamal Shehadi, signed in Beirut on Saturday, September 22nd an MOU covering issues of bi-lateral and multilateral interest. The MOU is an instrument to strengthen bonds between both authorities. It covers areas of cooperation related to consumer affairs and protection, spectrum management, quality of service, exchange of expertise and staff training among other subjects. Both Bahrain and Lebanon authorities have the highest level of independence in the Region.

A meeting was held after the signing of the MOU where the scope of cooperation was discussed. Discussions also covered issues related to the Arab Regulators Network (ARNET), of which both authorities are members, and Bahrain is currently presiding. “Working closely with TRA Lebanon would contribute to furthering ARNET’s activities, generating and accelerating harmonization between Arab Regulators” said Mr. Horne.

“We look at Bahrain as a successful liberalization case that brought investors and international companies to the country, created jobs and encouraged competition on the basis of quality of service as well as availability of services options” said Dr. Shehadi.

Lebanon is in the process of rapidly liberalizing the telecom market and the TRA has an essential role to play in driving it to success. The TRA Lebanon will soon be launching a mobile license auction to start the privatization of the sector.