BERLIN, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Deutsche Telekom is
pulling out of this month's Mobile World Congress, a source
familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, adding an official
announcement by other European telecoms operators was possible
later in the day.
Such a step, if confirmed, would deal a fatal blow to the
Feb. 24-27 that traditionally draws 100,000 visitors to
Barcelona, as European operators are foundational members of the
GSMA industry association that hosts the event.
Even after a spate of withdrawals, with U.S. exhibitors
pulling out en masse on Tuesday, the GSMA has stood by its line
that the event will go ahead. The GSMA board, comprising
industry executives, will convene on Friday to review its
options, sources said.
(Reporting by Douglas Busvine; editing by Keith Weir and Thomas
Seythal)