[Satellite Today 11-17-08] Thuraya signed a distribution agreement with i2 of Saudi Arabia to sell and market Thuraya’s phones through its distribution network throughout Egypt, Thuraya announced Nov. 16.
   The partnership, signed between Thuraya’s Egyptian national service provider Alkan Telecom and i2, is expected to stimulate an increase in marketing and sales activity of Thuraya’s mobile satellite services handhelds among key sectors in the country such as regional travelers, oil and gas, NGOs, tourism and transport.
   “We are very pleased that Alkan has partnered with i2 as a main distributor of Thuraya handheld telephones, expanding our reach in Egypt,” Sven Rohte, Thuraya’s chief commercial officer, said in a statement. “Our phones have been designed to meet the needs of vital segments such as the oil and gas, government administrations, corporate and NGOs, frequent travelers, media and communities in remote areas.”