Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited (VSNL), the leading provider of international communication solutions, announced on the completion of its acquisition of Teleglobe International Holdings Ltd.

By leveraging Teleglobe's extensive global reach, established operational strengths, and depth of carrier relationships worldwide, VSNL's international division, VSNL International, is poised to deliver a comprehensive portfolio of next-generation carrier and enterprise solutions.

The new combined company will own and operate one of the world's largest international mobile, data, and voice networks with coverage to more than 240 countries and territories. The foundation of the new company's capability will be the integration of VSNL's leading pan-India presence and unequalled cable diversity to and from India, the world's largest designed global backbone capacity, and Teleglobe's network.

With its acquisition of Teleglobe, the company's wholesale customers will benefit from superior network reach, and scalability from a single partner worldwide for voice, data and mobile services. As part of its strategy to deliver next-generation solutions to Fortune 1000 customers, VSNL International will leverage Teleglobe's network and capabilities to further expand services offered through its Global Business Pathway providing the world's leading businesses with diversified multi-technology connectivity, significant commercial flexibility, and innovative managed services.

"The Teleglobe acquisition is a critical step toward our vision to become a global industry leader providing customers with converged communications solutions," comments Mr. N. Srinath, Executive Director, VSNL. "Our focus in recent years has been to expand our presence into new markets and provide a complete portfolio of solutions to our global client base. We are now a key player in the international wholesale market, supporting more than 1,400 customers. Our complementary networks and capabilities will further drive mobile, data and voice innovation for our enterprise customers."

Liam Strong, President and Chief Executive Officer, Teleglobe, states, "The integration of assets, strengths, and resources will benefit our customers and employees. As a new VSNL company and member of the TATA Group, Teleglobe will gain unprecedented financial stability, the ability to enhance our offerings to the marketplace, and capacity to further its 50-year strong commitment to the wholesale sector."

The combined company will operate under the name of VSNL International, and will provide the wholesale and enterprise sectors with key mobile, data and voice offerings. Teleglobe will continue to serve as the product brand for the Voice, Mobile and IP Transit wholesale services. VSNL International will remain the product brand for the company's wholesale IPL and Ethernet offerings, as well as the full Enterprise portfolio.

"Our decision to pursue the Teleglobe acquisition was based on several key areas of synergy, including complementary global infrastructure and product offerings, as well as a shared culture dedicated to quality performance and committed to long-term industry growth," added N. Srinath.

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