The International Telecommunication Union and Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Co. have forged an agreement to provide portable satellite terminals to assist countries in disaster mitigation and relief.
Thuraya is contributing handheld satellite terminals along with solar chargers, while ITU will pay for airtime at discounted rates offered by Thuraya and will cover the transportation costs of telecom equipment to and from disaster-hit areas.
ITU will also provide its expertise in technical and operational training for government officials involved in rescue missions.