On 14th August 2006 the international rating agency Fitch Ratings confirmed to JSC North-West Telecom the national priority unsupported rating A (rus), with the "Stable" forecast, in addition to the earlier given international credit ratings.

The fact that the above scores have been assigned reflects Fitch Ratings' opinion that:

1. JSC North-West Telecom is occupying the dominating positions in the market of communication services in the Northwestern Federal District.

2. It is occupying about 76% of the market of local communication services in the region.

The confirmation of the national rating shows the high financial stability and solvency of JSC North-West Telecom and once again proves the validity of the financial policy pursued by OJSC North-West Telecom.