Bell Atlantic Welcomes Mannesman-Olivetti Relationship

September 5, 1997

The following statement may be attributed to Thomas Bartlett,

president, Bell Atlantic International Wireless:

Mannesman AG is an experienced and well-capitalized telecommunications

provider with whom we have worked successfully in Omnitel. We look

forward to continuing to work with Mannesman in one of the

fastest-growing wireless startups in the world.

As a result of the Bell Atlantic-NYNEX merger, the new Bell Atlantic

has a portfolio of wireline and wireless partnerships and joint

ventures in 20 countries outside the United States. We view the

international arena as a key opportunity to grow our business and

build shareowner value; we have long-term commitments to partners

around the world and very productive relationships with them; and, as

always, we regularly evaluate opportunities to build long-term value

outside the U.S.