"This mutually beneficial relationship is a positive step for both Cel*Star Guyana and LeadCom," Cel*Star said in a statement yesterday. "We are very pleased to be working with LeadCom, which is internationally recognized for innovative technology solutions and first-class service," said Cel*Star's Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Pierre Strasser.

LeadCom is the international leader in the provision, management and implementation of turnkey solutions for telecom vendors, operators and enterprises. The company is currently active in 22 countries and includes 12 subsidiary companies worldwide. Leadcom's suppliers include Nortel, LME (Ericsson) and Nokia, all internationally recognized companies in the telecommunications industry.

"The relationship between these two companies will contribute to Cel*Star's ability to provide superior telecommunication services to the people of Guyana with a strong emphasis on quality, coverage and overall customer satisfaction," said Mr. Strasser. 'We want the government and people of Guyana to recognize that our selection of LeadCom signifies the Cel*Star is fully committed to bringing world class cellular service to Guyana."

As a turnkey provider, LeadCom will be responsible for the integration of all the network components as well as the operation support system for Cel*Star.

Cel*Star says Phase 1 of its network will cover 86 per cent of Guyana's population, which ranges from Corriverton to Parika and through to Linden. Cel*Star expects to launch its services approximately two months after the completion of the physical interconnection with Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T).

The implementation of interconnection pursuant to an existing contact with GT&T has been delayed since October 2003 due to what Cel*Star contends is "the unilateral interruption of activities by GT&T."

GT&T has said that it is not against a relationship with Cel*Star, but has taken the principled position of awaiting the outcome of a court case involving Cel*Star Guyana's Wesley Kirton before proceeding with the deal.