Arab Finance: ARABSAT and Qatar-based Es’hailSat have signed a strategic partnership agreement to expand cooperation in broadcasting, satellite communications, and connectivity services, according to an emailed press release.

Signed during the Arab Radio and Television Festival (ASBU Festival) in Hammamet, Tunisia, the agreement aims to strengthen the companies' cooperation and expand joint initiatives across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The partnership seeks to reinforce the 26° East orbital location as a regional hub for satellite broadcasting by increasing the number of channels and diversifying content, enhancing the viewing experience and supporting the growth of the regional satellite media sector.

It also expands cooperation in satellite communications, very small aperture terminal (VSAT) services, and connectivity solutions.

The two companies will explore advanced technologies to improve service quality, efficiency, and reliability and provide customers with more integrated solutions.

In addition, ARABSAT and Es’hailSat plan to expand cooperation on the Unified Arab Bouquet, leveraging their international satellite coverage to extend the global reach of Arab television channels and deliver content to audiences beyond the MENA region.

ARABSAT CEO Badr N. Alsuwaidan said: "This agreement aims to strengthen strategic partnerships and integration with Es’hailSat, contributing to the development of the broadcasting and satellite communications ecosystem in the region. Through this cooperation, we look forward to reinforcing the 26° East orbital location and expanding areas of cooperation in broadcasting, communications, and satellite connectivity solutions, while supporting the global reach of Arab content and enabling it to reach wider audiences worldwide."

"This partnership also provides a foundation for developing joint initiatives and solutions that leverage the expertise and capabilities of both parties and keep pace with the rapid developments in the space sector, enhancing the quality of services provided to our customers and supporting our vision for a more integrated, innovative, and sustainable future," he added.

Meanwhile, Es’hailSat President and CEO Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari said: "This agreement represents an important step toward cross-sector collaboration between ARABSAT and Es’hailSat and leveraging the capabilities and expertise of both parties in satellite, connectivity, and broadcast services."

"Through this cooperation, we look forward to enriching the 26° East orbital location, expanding the scope of broadcasting, communications, and satellite connectivity solutions, and providing more advanced and flexible services to our customers. We also aspire to support the global reach of Arab content and open new horizons for cooperation that will strengthen the region’s position in the space and communications sector," Al Kuwari noted.

This agreement establishes a framework for long-term cooperation and joint projects that address customer needs and adapt to developments in the space, media, and telecommunications sectors.