Alcatel Shanghai Bell, Alcatel's joint venture in Shanghai, has pledged to continue to support domestic telecom operators in rolling out the third generation (3G) of mobile telecommunications strategies.

"We will leverage Alcatel's global experience of broadband user-centric solutions to ensure a fast roll out of 3G networks in China," said Gerard Dega, president of Alcatel Shanghai Bell.

The company announced on Thursday it has wrapped up an agreement with China Netcom Group, the country's second largest fixed-line carrier, to help deploy a 3G field trial network in Beijing.

According to the agreement, Alcatel Shanghai Bell will provide China Netcom with an end-to-end Alcatel Shanghai Bell's field-proven Evolium UMTS solution based on successful 3G products from Evolium SAS, Alcatel's joint venture with Fujitsu.

The solution includes the UMTS Multi-standard Base Stations (Node B), a Radio Network Controller (RNC) and core network elements.

Upon completion of such a 3G pilot network, China Netcom will be able to test innovative high-quality voice, data and multi-media mobile services in true-to-life conditions in the capital city.

This agreement strengthens Alcatel Shanghai Bell's position in 3G in China, having already successfully deployed a similar 3G trial network with China Telecom earlier in the year, Dega said.

"This trial with China Netcom is a significant step for Alcatel Shanghai Bell because it puts us in good position for 3G with both of China's two key potential 3G operators," he said.

(China Daily December 6, 2004)