8 July, Shenzhen, China – ZTE Corporation (“ZTE”) (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a publicly-listed global provider of telecommunications equipment, network solutions and mobile devices, is broadening its strategic partnership with the E-Plus Group. In future ZTE will operate and maintain the E-Plus network. The telecommunications equipment provider ZTE has extensive international experience in the field of managed services. For several years it has served as a key partner during E-Plus’ efforts to comprehensively expand its network.

The E-Plus Group is delivering greater efficiency, flexibility and effectiveness as part of the broad-based evolution of its network infrastructure to high-speed 4G. Along with a growing need to build out and maintain its network, customers are also calling for consistent high network quality. To help meet these challenges, E-Plus has signed an agreement with ZTE as managed service partner in Germany. Under the five-year contract, ZTE will be responsible for building, operating and maintaining the E-Plus network. The E-Plus Group will retain ownership over the network and maintain control over strategic network planning and development.

"We can take advantage of the synergies available as ZTE not only supplies the equipment but also builds and operates the E-Plus network,” says Andreas Pfisterer, Chief Technology Officer at the E-Plus Group. “ZTE is a perfect partner for successfully implementing our network strategy and with the transfer of network operation we take our partnership to the next level.” The E-Plus Group has been working with ZTE since 2009 to expand its UMTS network and upgrade its core network. E-Plus made the decision in February to contract ZTE as its supplier and partner in the company’s expansion of its LTE network in Germany.

"The fact that ZTE is taking over the maintenance and servicing of the mobile communications infrastructure of E-Plus as part of a managed services contract proves the capability of ZTE to deliver first class services and solutions. This step is a logical and consistent result of a close and trustful cooperation between our companies in recent years," said Betty Cui, President Europe Region and Vice President of ZTE Corporation. "Our goal is to support and ensure the long term success of E-Plus."

The contractual partners, E-Plus Group and ZTE, will release specific dates at a later moment.