Rostelecom on Thursday underlined the appeal of a merger with Swedish Group Tele2's Russian mobile unit as it seeks to overcome reliance on core fixed-line operations and mount a stronger challenge to cellular carriers.
The state-controlled company, aiming to raise its game in mobile, broadband and cable TV to offset losses on land lines, said it was not in formal discussions with Tele2 about merging its Russian mobile assets but saw few alternatives.
"We are considering a number of potential acquisitions in mobile in regions where we are not present. But … of course you know that apart from Tele2 there are no big potential targets," chief executive Alexander Provotorov said Thursday.
Kommersant reported this month that Rostelecom was in talks with Tele2 about a possible merger of their Russian mobile businesses.
(Reuters)
Related articles:
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.