24/08/2010 (Agence Europe) - On 12 August, the European Commission authorised the deployment of an open network (Xarxa Oberta) in the Spanish region of Catalonia. This network will respond to the connectivity requirements of the regional administrative centres of Catalonia and will be open, at wholesale access level, to any electronic communication operators wishing to access it. After an in-depth examination, the Commission concluded that the measure complies with the guidelines on broadband communication networks and that it will contribute significantly to the achievement of the digital strategy objectives for Europe and will provide increased competition opportunities based on the infrastructure of Catalonia, without unduly distorting competition. (O.L./transl.fl)