25 October 2010

FRANCE 24 has signed a new distribution agreement with Asia Satellite Telecommunications Co. Ltd. (AsiaSat) to commence the distribution of its French channel while it will continue to distribute its English channel throughout the Asia-Pacific region on AsiaSat 5 via the SatLink platform.

FRANCE 24 launched its English-language channel in Asia on AsiaSat 5 in 2009. With the additional C-band capacity under this new agreement, FRANCE 24 will bring its French channel to the Asian continent, enabling it to address both French and English speaking audiences in the region.

FRANCE 24 has access to almost 3 million TV households in Asia with key carriage agreements concluded with major Asian cable networks, DTH and IPTV platforms.

"Following the successful launch of our English-language channel on AsiaSat 5 in 2009, we are delighted to work with AsiaSat, our valued satellite partner, to continue to roll out our French channel in Asia. By distributing both English and French television services on AsiaSat 5, we are in a strong position to further broaden our reach across the Asia-Pacific region," said Philippe Rouxel, Vice President Worldwide Distribution of FRANCE 24.

William Wade, CEO of AsiaSat commented, "We are thrilled that FRANCE 24 has again chosen to put its trust in AsiaSat. AsiaSat 5’s excellent access to Asian pay TV platforms and terrestrial TV networks will help FRANCE 24 meet its goals of addressing a wider audience across Asia."

Featuring news and current events from a French perspective, FRANCE 24 broadcasts in 3 languages (French, English and Arabic) and is owned by the public holding company Audiovisuel Extérieur de la France (AEF).