AMM has accepted the application of OJSC the Southern Telecommunications Company allowing nine telecom operators in the Southern federal district to merger with STC.  This is shown by a resolution signed by deputy Anti-Monopoly minister A.N. Golomolzin on May 17, 2002.  

The companies slated to take part in the merger include: OJSC Elektrosvyaz, Republic of Adygeia, OJSC Svyazinform, Astrakhan region, OJSC Volgogradelektrosvyaz, OJSC Elektrosvyaz, Republic of Kalmykia, OJSC KabBaltelecom, OJSC Karachaevo-Cherkesselektrosvyaz, OJSC Sevosetinelektrosvyaz, OJSC Elektrosvyaz Stavropol krai, OJSC Rostovelektrosvyaz.