IBC today announced that it has signed a contract with international calls carrier Hallo 015, part of Rami Levy Communications, under which it will be able to offer its customers advanced services on the fiber optic network and neutral portal that IBC will operate. This is in addition to the mobile services packages from Rami Levy Communications.The agreement is based on an open services exchange business model, which is intended to encourage technological innovation and consumers’ (free) choice by building a neutral network that available for use by all Israeli telecommunications carriers on an equal basis.

In addition to the linkup to the fiber optic network, services providers using IBC’s network will be able to offer consumers a wide range of services via the neutral portal, through which end-users will be able to purchase a variety of services from service providers.

Israel Electric Corporation (IEC) (TASE: ELEC.B22) owns 40% of IBC, and 60% is owned by an investor group, headed by ViaEuropa (30%), Rapac Communication and Infrastructure Ltd. (TASE: RPAC) (15%), BATM Advanced Communications Ltd. (LSE: BVC; TASE: BATM) (12.5%), Zisapel Properties (1992) Ltd. (12.5%), and Tamares Holdings Ltd. (12.5%).