ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunications Authority is all set to hire consultant of international repute for the smooth process of 3G license auction.

According to the details, requirements have been advertised in the local and international media for hiring a consultant.

Official sources from the PTA told APP that the consultant will be appointed after fulfilling the government’s rules and regulations.

“We will follow the government’s policy in this regard,” they said.

Sources also said the process of planning and consultation with stakeholders was initiated simultaneously. Apart from the existing operators, potential investors, local and foreign, were identified and approached, they added.

During the meeting with international investors, it was highlighted that the tentative timelines published by PTA for the auction process were difficult to meet.

Sources said: “Participation in the auction requires thorough planning, completion of procedural formalities and lining up of large sums of money. Arranging such finances on short notice is not easy, especially in the present global economic scenario. Other relevant stakeholders including Auction Supervisory Committee have emphasized the necessity of appointing the Consultant”.

“Keeping our tradition of taking stakeholders on board and to make all possible efforts towards a highly transparent auction process, the final schedule will be given soon, with due consultation.”