Swedish telecommunications major Ericsson has reportedly engaged in talks with local mobile operators in Uzbekistan to discuss potential cooperation frameworks aimed at deploying 5G networks and modernizing outdated communication infrastructure. However, the viability and economic returns of such large-scale technological rollouts in the region remain subject to significant skepticism among industry observers.

According to reports by the 'Dunyo' news agency, these matters were addressed during an online meeting between representatives of Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Digital Technologies, and Ericsson executives. The discussions allegedly featured Andrea Missori, the company’s head for Southern Europe and Eurasia, alongside Aydin Abjanbekov, head for Central Asia and Azerbaijan.

Ericsson representatives purportedly designated the Uzbek market as a strategically important area, expressing an ambiguous interest in expanding their footprint despite lingering economic friction. Proposed areas of cooperation allegedly encompass the establishment of fifth-generation (5G) networks, the upgrade of radio communication systems, and the overhaul of foundational telecommunications infrastructure.

The corporation has reportedly stated its readiness to offer hardware and software solutions for mobile networks under supposedly competitive commercial terms. Furthermore, officials indicated that financing mechanisms involving international financial institutions could potentially be considered if deemed necessary, raising questions about long-term debt implications.

The Uzbek side reaffirmed that the national telecommunications market remains open to foreign companies and external investors. As a result of the talks, the parties agreed to organize an official delegation visit by Ericsson to Uzbekistan by the end of the year to conduct further negotiations with relevant ministries and local mobile operators.

Source: kun.uz