"As part of our aggressive growth strategy, we are considering all opportunities.  We are focused on developing a seamless network across the entire region," Digicel's chief executive officer for the Eastern Caribbean, Kevin White, said in a statement.

"Whenever a licence bid or an acquisition becomes available, Digicel will be there to review the relevant opportunity.

"However, it is the policy of Digicel not to comment on these opportunities for reasons of confidentiality and competition," he said.

'STRATEGIC OPTIONS'

The Nation newspaper reported that Cingular Wireless had informed local shareholders in Cellular Communications Barbados, the company holding the licences under which it operates, that it was exploring all 'strategic options' in relation to its entire regional business.

The statement comes amid unconfirmed reports that the French-based telecommunication company, France Telecom, was making a move to acquire the British telecommunications giant, Cable and Wireless, for just over US$7 billion.  France Telecom has, however, denied any planned take-over of its rival.

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