Robi, Banglalink signs MoU over sharing network resources

Robi and Banglalink, two leading mobile network operators in Bangladesh, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to evaluate possible sharing and rationalisation of their network resources.

This collaboration is set to expand 4G access nationwide, enhancing both the quality and speed of mobile broadband for customers, says a press release.

According to the release, sharing network resources is a global practice in the telecom industry. It promotes an asset-light business model and supports both companies' commitment to environmental sustainability through optimised use of energy resources.

Additionally, it ensures better cost efficiency and usage of telco resources, enabling investments in service quality and value-added services (VAS). Furthermore, sharing network resources among telcos helps save foreign currency.

The announcement was made today (May 17) by State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak at an event at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka.

The Posts and Telecommunications Division organised the event on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. Robi and Banglalink signed the MoU at the event to strengthen their collaboration in sharing network resources.

This innovative collaboration reflects the telecom industry's commitment to delivering best-in-class services. It has the potential to be a nation-building effort, allowing customers from both operators to benefit from a wide range of digital services, advancing their journey as smart citizens in a Smart Bangladesh.

In a joint statement, Banglalink and Robi said, “This potential collaboration is a timely and dynamic initiative that will transform telecommunications in Bangladesh. We are excited for our customers to experience improved service quality with expanded and uninterrupted nationwide coverage.”

The statement said, “Our first step is to evaluate the technical and financial feasibility of network sharing. With the necessary policy changes and regulatory approval, we will share network infrastructures. Our shared goal is to provide robust telecom connectivity for every citizen, contributing to the Smart Bangladesh Vision 2041. We are grateful to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) for their persistent support in facilitating such forward-looking initiatives.”

At the programme, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, said, “We are on a mission to make the Bangladeshi Telecom Industry a driving force in achieving the government’s vision of a Smart Bangladesh. Telecommunications, as an essential service, holds the potential to serve as a bridge connecting access to digital services with customers.”

“This potential collaboration between Banglalink and Robi will encourage innovation and promote the efficient utilization of the nation’s resources in critical national development initiatives, ultimately transforming the lives of Bangladeshi citizens through seamless connectivity,” he added.

Post and Telecommunication Division Secretary Abu Hena Morshed Zaman, ICT Division Secretary Md Shamsul Arefin, BTRC Chairman Engineer Md Mohiuddin Ahmed, Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dr Shahjahan Mahmud, Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Erik Aas, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer of Banglalink Taimur Rahman, and Robi’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer Shahed Alam, among others, also attended the event.