MT140

5 September 1995

McMULLAN OPENS NEW TELSTRA OFFICE IN HANOI

Opening Telstra's new office in Hanoi today, the Minister for Trade, Senator Bob McMullan, said the close and mutually rewarding relationship between Telstra and Vietnam exemplifies the type of business dealings the Government is encouraging as Australia becomes more integrated into the Asia-Pacific region.

Senator McMullan said Telstra has worked closely with Vietnam's VNPT (the domestic and international carrier) since 1986.

"The relationship is based on a Business Cooperation Contract under which Telstra draws much of its return from international communications revenue," Senator McMullan said.

"Under a ten year contract signed in 1990, Telstra will receive a share of international and domestic revenue in return for substantial capital investment in the Vietnamese telecommunications network."

International satellite gateways have been installed in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Danang, along with a digital microwave facility, new telephone exchanges, data services and other equipment - all backed by Telstra training and management services.

Senator McMullan said Telstra's move to a new office was necessitated by growing staff numbers - now 13 Australian and 20 Vietnamese based in Hanoi.

"The new office, in the centre of Hanoi's business district, more appropriately reflects Telstra's position as one of the earliest and most respected foreign investors in Vietnam," Senator McMullan said.

Further information:

Senator McMullan's office: John Flannery, (06) 277 7420

Telstra: Jill Lester, (02) 287 4414