The GSM/GPRS 1800 network will be rolled out in three phases, with initial installations scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2003.  When completed, Mobitel will be able to provide Island wide coverage and to offer prepaid services, MMS and roaming from day one to its subscribers.

"Mobitel's goal is to give our valued customers a cost effective seamless island wide coverage," said Lalith De Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Mobitel. "The people of Sri Lanka will for the first time experience a GSM mobile network, whose core values are under pinned by unrivalled customer care coupled with crystal clear clarity, as well as all the other extra value added services that Mobitel provides its customers. We will also benefit from the positive working relationship with Ericsson, which has spanned the last six years."

To facilitate the network launch, Ericsson is also supplying a range of services, including business consulting and initial network design and installation. Ericsson is also providing consulting services to support Mobitel in developing, deploying and marketing the most appropriate and attractive voice and data services for the Sri Lanka market.

"Mobitel's continuing confidence in Ericsson's leading technology and our unparalleled position in deploying GSM and GPRS networks is very gratifying," said Bimal Dayal, Managing Director, Ericsson Sri Lanka. "We are honored to have been chosen by Mobitel for this very prestigious contract."