Iraqi National Investment Commission Endorses Connect Iraq 2009

Talia and Global VSAT Forum Collaborate on Baghdad Programme to Examine Strategies for Enterprise and Consumer Communications, and to Provide Training

LONDON, UK. -- 2009-03-24

Talia and the Global VSAT Forum (GVF) are pleased to announce the support of the National Investment Commission of the Republic of Iraq for the Connect Iraq 2009 conference. The first event of it's kind in Baghdad, the conference will bring together government, local industry, international suppliers, and the user community to address the role of satellite, wireless and fibre solutions 10 -13 May 2009.

'We consider this conference a very important event to promote investment in Iraq,' said Salar Muhammad Ameen, Vice Chairman of the National Investment Commission. 'We are delighted to have this chance to discuss new investment opportunities in Iraq and meet international industry leaders.'

'Given this is the first international communications conference in the country, there has been a great interest,' said Alan Afrasiab, Talia's CEO. 'We hope to encourage growth and spread the adoption of new communications technology by bringing together local and foreign experts.'

Confirmed speakers and sponsors of Connect Iraq 2009 include technology companies, satellite professionals, international service groups, Iraqi governmental officials, and local industry leaders. Further information on sponsors and the conference schedule will be released shortly.

About Talia

Talia is a top-tier provider of Internet and voice services, recognised as one of the fastest growing satellite communications providers in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Experts in VSAT, wireless, and voice communications, Talia provide network coverage, services, and support. Headquartered in London with offices in Dubai, Talia is committed to excellent customer service and top-grade solutions. For more information about Talia, please see: http://www.talia.net

About GVF

GVF is the international non-profit association of the satellite communications sector. Headquartered in the UK, the organisation has a global remit to promote expanded access to fixed and mobile satellite-based solutions throughout the world. In pursuit of this objective, GVF undertakes a wide range of activities, including education & training, technical co-ordination and standards, and capacity building for progressive regulatory and policy reform. GVF’s membership includes more than 200 satellite communications organisations from more than 100 nations in every major region of the world. For further information, please contact: David Hartshorn, Secretary General, david.hartshorn@gvf.org

About the National Investment Commission of the Republic of Iraq

The National Investment Commission is a government body for attracting strategic investment, and encouraging best practices techniques. Its mission is to support Iraq's development, through expanding and diversifying its production and services base. For more information, please visit http://www.investpromo.gov.iq