Lars Nyberg is on tour to Central Asia and Caucasus and Uzbekistan was the first point in his visit. It is expected that Mr Nyberg will also visit Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Moldavia.

Speaking at the press conference in Tashkent, Lars Nyberg said the company plans to take leading position in the [telecommunication] market of Uzbekistan. He said the company will respect local traditions and values.

Mr Nyberg said: "We are investing in Uzbekistan as we sure in bright economic perspectives of the country. The market of Uzbekistan play important role in CIS and the potential of telecommunication market’s development is huge. We are one of key European investors in CIS states."

TeliaSonera CEO underlined that the company will continue work on expansion of coverage in Uzbekistan and make mobile communication more affordable. He said the company will introduce new services and products based on modern technologies.

Lars Nyberg said the company plans to invest about US$160 million into development and expansion of its network, as well as introduction of new technologies.

TeliaSonera acquired US-based MCT Corp., which has a controlling shareholding in Coscom, in July this year for US$292 million in a move to expand beyond its Nordic home market. Coscom is the third largest GSM operator of Uzbekistan.

Mr Nyberg was appointed President and CEO on 27 July 2007, and assumed his position on September 3. Mr. Nyberg is also Chairman of DataCard Inc. and board member of Autoliv Inc. Between 1995 and 2003 he was Chairman and CEO of NCR Corp, where he continued as Chairman until 2005. Previously, Mr. Nyberg held several managerial positions in Philips, and was a member of Philips Group Management Committee. Mr. Nyberg holds a Bachelor degree in Business Administration.