Afghanistan Signs First Satellite Deal

Afghanistan on May 10 started using its first ever satellite, AFGHANSAT 1, which will support a wide range of services, including broadcasting, telecommunications, and international connectivity.

The Afghan government has signed a contract with European satellite operator, Eutelsat to deploy the in-orbit satellite.

Information Technology and Telecommunications Minister Amirzai Sangin said it was a "historic move" to boost Afghanistan's national broadcasting and telecommunications infrastructure.

Sangin said Kabul is renting the satellite for $4 million a year and expects to earn $15 million annually from it.

The telecommunication sector and a growing digital media industry are among Afghanistan's biggest achievements since the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001.
Based on reporting by AFP and RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan