International Conusltants Commited to Pakistan 3G Process

We all are well aware of the fact that Pakistan is the only country in the South Asian region not to have tasted the wonders of 3G mobile services. People were happy that at last we are getting 3G, the mobile operators were zealous and the consumers had long awaited this.

PTA started its efforts with getting the internationally reputed consultants on-board to ensure transparency. All the 3 consultants are of an international repute; they have vast experience and are highly competent. The wheels were set in motion and the end goal was within two months sight. Everything was online but the last few weeks have been a roller coaster ride in this 3G spectrum auction process.

The main hinder in 3G process is the propaganda going on regarding 3G process. Instead of supporting our government for taking initiative for such a technology which would bring billions of investment to Pakistan. It looks like someone is trying to delay 3G as much as possible by creating conspiracies regarding the Process, Recruitment, Paperwork etc.
We are obliged that these Consultants are devoting their services for bringing 3G in Pakistan. We highly appreciate their effort in solving the propaganda going on regarding 3G auction process.

 

International Conusltants Commited to Pakistan 3G Process

Published in The Express Tribune, December 18th, 2012.
ISLAMABAD: We are the three consultants appointed to advise on Pakistan’s forthcoming 3G auction. Between us, we have over 60 years experience in advising governments around the world on telecommunications issues and spectrum auctions. Sadly, we are compelled to write this letter to defend our reputations following recent articles about Pakistan’s 3G auction process.

We have done nothing unlawful. We simply applied for the jobs advertised on the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority website, had interviews and signed a contractual agreement to carry out the job. We have acted entirely properly in this matter and will continue to do so. We greatly welcome the involvement of Transparency International Pakistan to ensure that the auction is conducted properly.

As professionals, we are committed to bringing 3G to Pakistan. The economic benefits will be huge: an enormous increase in broadband penetration that will allow Pakistan to promote programmes such as e-learning, e-government and e-medicine, to name a few. It will also provide a welcome stimulus for the local software industry and massive potential efficiencies for businesses. This long-awaited modernisation of the mobile industry will put real money in the pockets of ordinary citizens all over Pakistan.

We are also committed to securing a fair price for the spectrum which neither undervalues a scarce public asset nor overvalues it, so mobile companies have no funds to invest in new services. In discussions with stakeholders, we have created a detailed plan to deliver these objectives and are keen to execute that plan as soon as possible.

We seek your support and the support of your readers in bringing the benefits of 3G to Pakistan as soon as possible.
Rob Nicholls, Martin Sims and Dennis Ward
Express Tribune