16 December 2003 Paris and Beijing Lightwave Europe--Alcatel and Beijing Communications Corporation, a subsidiary of China Netcom, announced today that the two companies signed a $20 million (U.S.)contract to build an intelligent optical network for enhancing the information infrastructure in Beijing. The contract was won through Alcatel Shanghai Bell, Alcatel's flagship Chinese company.
Under the contract, Alcatel will provide China Netcom with its end-to-end intelligent multi-service metro solutions including the state-of-the-art Optical Multi-Service Node, a next generation crossconnect and network management platform to build a new intelligent optical network covering the city of Beijing. Alcatel will also provide special support to this strategic project by setting up a technical support center in Beijing to ensure the rapid deployment of the new network.
Upon completion of the project in July 2004, China Netcom will be able to offer high quality voice, data and multimedia services in the capital city. End-users, corporate and residential alike, will be able to enjoy a new broadband lifestyle at home and in the workplace. The new network will also be able to provide even stronger telecommunication support to large-scale events.