July 25, 2005 - 10:55 AMT
VIVACELL ADDRESSED TO BODY REGULATING TELECOMMUNICATIONS IN ARMENIA
Second cellular operator Karabakh Telecom entered the Armenian market under the trademark of VivaCell on July 1. "The response is rather positive and we have some big expectations. However we are experiencing serious problems with ArmenTel", K-Telecom General Manager Ralph C. Yirikian said in a conversation with ".am" PanARMENIAN.Net reporter. In his words, two operators cannot establish normal communication with each other. VivaCell subscribers often have problems with international calls. "In the evening our subscribers cannot make or accept international calls. The fact is that ArmenTel is still holding monopoly for international communication and we are dependent on it. We have many times addressed with official statements to ArmenTel and the regulating body in charge for the telecommunications in Armenia. However no response has been received yet. If no steps are undertaken we will appeal to the Anti-monopoly Commission", he noted. Despite the difficulties available the company is continuing to expand its network throughout Armenia. The General Manager assured that till October 2005 VivaCell will cover all the regions of Armenia. Presently the network covers the regions of Armavir, Aragatsotn Kotayk and partly Gegharkunik. When touching upon the tariffs, Palph C. Yirikian stated the company is not going to lower the service prices yet.