CWC.L Share News (CWC)

LONDON, Oct 30 (Reuters) - Cable & Wireless Communications has paid $100 million to Panama's government to extendits mobile licence by 20 years, allowing the British telecomsfirm to continue growing its mobile data services footprint inthe country.

Panama is one of Cable & Wireless's main markets since thecompany decided to sell its assets in Macau and Monaco as partof a new strategy to focus on the pan-American region.

The company said on Wednesday the agreement, which will runfrom 2017 to 2037, will allow it access to several large blocksof Panama's radio spectrum. It said the payment for the licenceagreement will be made from existing cash resources.

"In securing our long term future this agreement cements ourposition and ensures we can remain and grow as the best dataprovider in Panama," CWC's Chief Executive Tony Rice said.