Eutelsat in talks with Italy for secure telecoms network

(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 6 - French satellite operator Eutelsat is having "very positive talks" with the Italian government to provide systems for secure satellite communications as part of an operation that could replace the offer made by Elon Musk's Starlink, according to media reports on Thursday. Eutelstat is the world's third-largest satellite operator and a competitor to Elon Muskïs Starlink.
    Eutelsat CEO Eva Berneke told Bloomberg Television in an interview that the company is having very positive negotiations with Italy and has always had good relations with Rome, expressing the hope they will continue in the future, when asked whether an agreement was close.
    Italy is looking to guarantee encrypted communications between the government, diplomats and defence officials in key areas.
    Berneke recalled in the interview with Bloomberg Television that Eutelstat has a long-running cooperation with Telespazio and with Italy and is looking to deepen this connection.
    Rumoured talks between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government and Musk's Starlink have been criticized by members of the opposition on the grounds that national security would be at risk with the deal. (ANSA).