Vladimir Lučić, CEO of Telekom, announced that the intensive rollout of 5G technology will commence next year. He revealed that negotiations are currently underway in the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija to expand the network in the region. Lučić mentioned that a meeting will take place at the end of October in Pristina with the American Embassy to address ongoing issues with the Pristina administration, which has denied permission for network expansion for the past 12 years.
“We are actively engaged in diplomatic efforts concerning the 5G license and aim to initiate network expansion throughout Kosovo and Metohija next year,” Lučić stated.
He expressed confidence that, under pressure from the US administration, there should be no further obstacles. “We are a vital provider in the region, serving 30,000 households. Once we obtain that license, we expect to quickly become the number one operator, with a significant portion of the Albanian population using our services,” he added.
Lučić also highlighted that the European Investment Bank recognizes Telekom as a key partner in the digital transformation process, offering substantial support for the deployment of new technologies. He noted, “Development will accelerate thanks to financial partnerships with the European Investment Bank, the Swedish Export Bank, and the American Export Bank, which are contributing to project financing.”
Regarding the 5G network expansion, Lučić detailed plans to collaborate with strategic partner Vodafone to ensure complete coverage of Serbia by 2027, coinciding with the International Specialized Exhibition “Expo” in Belgrade. “We have already implemented some base stations that support 5G technology, and once we receive approval from RATEL, we will launch the network. We are prepared to cover all cities with this technology within a year,” he emphasized.
Addressing public concerns about the potential harm of 5G, Lučić reassured citizens that fears surrounding the construction of base stations are unwarranted. “Radiation from base stations is not harmful; in fact, having a strong signal in their vicinity is beneficial. People use mobile phones daily, and with a better signal, the devices automatically reduce their power and radiation,” he concluded.
