The network expansion, which includes solutions from the Motorola Reach GSM portfolio, will enhance SOMONCOM's service quality and coverage and provide a network that is prepared for future technology upgrades. It will also increase the capacity of the network to support rapid growth and development.

The Motorola Reach GSM infrastructure that is being deployed includes Motorola's Horizon II 900/1800 MHz base stations, which support GPRS and a future migration to EDGE. This technology will simplify the future network development as the company looks to introduce enhanced data applications and services.

Richard F. Seney, CEO of MCT, commented, "MCT is pleased to continue expansion of its long-term strategic relationship with Motorola. Collectively we are committed to bringing an ever-expanding, state-of-the art service offering to the people of Tajikistan."

Mamajon Khamidov, general director of SOMONCOM, says: "The mobile industry in Tajikistan is entering a period of rapid growth and we are challenged to continually provide innovative services and an improved user experience to more customers. We have a long history with Motorola through its relationship with MCT and believe its expertise and heritage in GSM will help us achieve our business goals."

Jose Figueroa, corporate vice president and regional manager, Motorola Networks EMEA, comments: "Through SOMONCOM, we are able to further demonstrate our innovation and expertise in rapidly emerging markets and support SOMONCOM's strategic focus on expansion and smooth migration to new technologies. This contract builds on our ten-year relationship with MCT and now sees us working with two out of the three MCT Central Asian ventures."

About SOMONCOM

SOMONCOM launched service in 1999 in the northern region of Tajikistan as the first GSM operator in the Republic of Tajikistan. SOMONCOM has the largest network coverage area in northern Tajikistan. In addition to the regional capital of Khujand, SOMONCOM provides coverage to all major population centers, including the remote Pendjikent region, as well as to mountainous areas along Tajikistan's north-south highway. For current information on SOMONCOM, please visit http://www.somoncom.com .