Beyond Connectivity 2008 Spotlight on Technological Diversity, Convergence and Market Liberalization
Beyond Connectivity 2008 got underway today at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel with the telecommunication industry’s decision-makers discussing technological diversity, convergence and market liberalization among other hot topics for the opening day.
Organised by the SAMENA Telecommunications Council, the annual industry event began with a keynote speech from Council Executive Managing Director and Founder Tom Wilson, who expressed optimism that this year’s workshop, like last year, will provide groundbreaking insights and recommendations on how to face challenges confronting the telecoms sector in the region. This was followed by a keynote address via videoconference from The Honorable Robert M. McDowell, Commissioner, US Federal Communications Commission.
Other key speakers included Osman Sultan, CEO, du, the event’s diamond sponsor; and Mohammed Al Wohaibi, CEO, Omantel & Chairman, SAMENA Telecommunications Council.
The afternoon roundtable discussions included a series of noted speakers and panellists discussing a wide range of issues that included technological diversity and convergence, market liberalization, mobile TV, international roaming, and mobile virtual networks.
Market Liberalization & Convergence became the hot topic during midday discussions with an interactive discussion from speakers including Saeed Al Qahtani, GM Strategies & Regulatory Studies, Saudi Telecom and Tarek Jundi, Regional Manager, Cisco Systems.
Thought by some to be the highlight of a CEO’s career, executing (or surviving) a merger, or an acquisition, is a daunting challenge for executives and organizations alike. Considering there is a pending dearth of intellectual capital, which could make the process of due diligence more efficient and correct, and help touch upon true business opportunities, there is a strong need to further delve into M&A’s many facets through close collaboration.
A discussion on this subject was carried out during SAMENA’s Convergence to Casablanca 2007, this year, this year’s discussions focused on whether M&A’s are needed or are necessary in this part of the world, and what the opportunities are for merged units in the future.
