PCCW Global, Sparkle, Telecom Egypt, and ZOI Collaborate on AAE-2 Cable

Deal News | Jun 12, 2025 | Zawya

PCCW Global, Sparkle, Telecom Egypt, and ZOI Collaborate on AAE-2 Cable

In a significant endeavor to boost global connectivity, four major subsea cable operators – PCCW Global, Sparkle, Telecom Egypt, and Zain Omantel International (ZOI) – have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop the Asia-Africa-Europe-2 (AAE-2) subsea cable system. This next-generation cable will connect major hubs from Hong Kong and Singapore to Italy, traversing through Thailand, the Arabian Peninsula, and Egypt. The AAE-2 aims to satisfy the burgeoning demand for high-capacity internet services, supporting cloud computing, content delivery, and digital transformations in the regions. The project is intended to provide a more geographically diverse and resilient transmission path, integrating terrestrial and subsea infrastructures. The AAE-2 symbolizes a collaborative commitment from the operators to support business growth, improve data transfer speeds, and strengthen regional networks. Each partner plays a core role, with an emphasis on expanding economic opportunities and technological advancements throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe, continuing their efforts from the first AAE cable system.

Sectors

  • Telecommunications
  • Infrastructure

Geography

  • Asia – The subsea cable will connect major hubs in Asia, including Hong Kong and Singapore.
  • Africa – The project involves major sites in Africa, notably around the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt.
  • Europe – The subsea cable connection extends to Europe, expected to land in Italy.

Industry

  • Telecommunications – This industry is relevant as the article discusses the construction of a subsea cable system aimed at improving global telecommunications connectivity.
  • Infrastructure – The article involves the development of physical infrastructure, specifically the subsea cable system that spans multiple continents.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    PCCW GlobalConsortium MemberCompanyA leading digital infrastructure provider involved in the AAE-2 project, empowering businesses with secure connectivity solutions.
    SparkleConsortium MemberCompanyA major telecommunications operator and part of the TIM Group, contributing to the AAE-2 cable system with a vast network in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
    Telecom EgyptConsortium MemberCompanyA total telecom operator in Egypt, providing comprehensive services and with significant stakes in subsea cable infrastructure.
    Zain Omantel International (ZOI)Consortium MemberCompanyA joint venture serving as a major player in telecommunications, specifically focused on wholesale services in the Middle East.