DHAKA: Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Corporation (BTRC) has signed an accord with Cannes-based Franco-Italian aerospace manufacturer Thales Alenia Space over Bangladesh’s ‘Bangabandhu Satellite’.

Tk nearly 2,000-crore will cost to purchase satellite system to launch it.

State minister for posts and telecommunications Tarana Halim was present during the signing at Pan Pacific Sonargaon hotel in city on Wednesday.

BTRC chairman Dr Shahjahan Mahmud and Thales Alenia chairman and also chief executive officer (CEO) Jean-Loïc Galle signed the agreement on behalf of their respective sides.

According to the deal, Franco-Italian aerospace manufacturer will operate and arrange the loan regarding satellite infrastructure, launching system, land and space control system and other facilities.

However, ‘Bangabandhu Satellite’ is expected to be prepared for launching on December 16 in 2017.

Tarana Halim said that if the satellite is launched an uninterrupted telecommunication service will be ensured for disaster-prone Bangladesh.

Moreover, the country will also be able to earn foreign currency from satellite space rental, she added.

‘It will also create direct and indirect job opportunities as well.’

BDST: 1410 HRS, Nov 11, 2015
RR/SMS