Iraqi update

Chris is now back in the UK having spent six busy weeks working with the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA). Based at a former presidential palace in Baghdad, the CPA is the temporary government of Iraq, responsible for administering the country and restoring basic services following the end of the war.

Chris was based in the communications team which focused on the rebuilding of damaged telecoms infrastructure and the longer term development of the Iraqi communications sector.

A key role for Chris was to advise on how up to three mobile telephone licenses for Iraq should be issued. Chris helped to draw up the appropriate licence conditions and it is hoped that the first mobile networks will start operating in the autumn

Prior to the war, only a very small part of the country had access to mobile networks, while huge parts of the country were also without any fixed telecoms. Establishing better communications is therefore a clear priority for the CPA to support the social and economic development of Iraq.

Speaking to Oftel News on his return, Chris said: "Working in Baghdad was a fantastic challenge, providing a rare opportunity to contribute to the rebuilding of a country. Although I was only there for six weeks, I think we were able to make some important progress over this period and for me it proved a fascinating and utterly memorable experience."