Mobile network operators (MNOs) have requested from Telecom Egypt (TE) [ETEL.CA] the payment of any costs that would be associated with the maintenance of their tower stations, according to unnamed sources. TE will offer 2G and 3G services, virtually, by utilising the MNOs’ networks. However, TE will not be allowed to participate in the purchase of any mobile equipment components and install it on the towers. In other news, the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (NTRA) has given Vodafone Egypt (VFE) and Orange Egypt a six-month grace period to accept the international gateway licence terms. It is worth noting that VFE had extended its international gateway agreement with TE back in January 2015 for a period of three years, while Orange Egypt extended it for a period of five years. (Al Borsa, Al Mal)   Telecom Egypt: EGP8.24 as of 24 October 2016, Rating: Neutral, FV: EGP10.25 per share, MCap: USD1,584mn, ETEL EY / ETEL.CA