VEON and Engro Corporation Complete Pioneering Infrastructure Partnership in Pakistan

Core Insights - VEON Ltd. has successfully closed a partnership with Engro Corporation for the pooling and management of telecommunications infrastructure assets in Pakistan, marking a significant step in its asset-light strategy [1][3][4] Group 1: Partnership Details - The infrastructure assets of VEON, managed under Deodar (Private) Limited, have been transferred to Engro Connect, a subsidiary of Engro Corp, while VEON's digital operator Jazz will lease these assets for mobile voice and data services [2][4] - The partnership was completed at an enterprise value of USD 562.7 million, with regulatory approvals obtained in May 2025 [4] Group 2: Strategic Implications - This partnership allows Jazz to accelerate its transformation into a services company, expanding its digital portfolio to include financial services, entertainment, healthcare, and enterprise services [3] - The collaboration aims to strengthen Pakistan's digital economy, reflecting the visionary approach of Pakistani authorities that facilitated the partnership [3] Group 3: Company Profiles - VEON operates across six countries, serving nearly 160 million customers and focusing on technology-driven services that promote economic growth [5] - Jazz, as Pakistan's leading digital operator, has over 71.5 million cellular subscribers and offers a wide range of digital services, including JazzCash, Garaj, and Tamasha [6] - Engro Corporation is a diversified conglomerate in Pakistan, involved in various sectors including telecommunications infrastructure, and has established partnerships with global entities [7]