Extending a warm welcome to the employees of Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd (VSNL) – who are now part of the Tata clan – Tata group chairman, Ratan Tata said in a letter dated February 13, 2002: "Let me take this opportunity to assure you that Tatas will stand by all the commitments made to the government regarding the future of VSNL."

He added: "Tatas have historically embraced the rights of employees, and we are proud of the very cordial and constructive relationships the unions enjoy with the managements in various Tata companies. We intend to continue this tradition with VSNL." Mr. Tata said that everyone in Tatas was excited about the coming together of the two organisations. "We have great respect for the spirit, talent and commitment of the people of VSNL, and their achievements over the years. We look forward to contributing to VSNL’s future growth," he added.

Stating that telecommunications has tremendous growth potential in India, Mr Tata said that in addressing this sector, VSNL’s strengths in international long distance telephony, internet services, and other value-added services nicely complement the Tata Group’s wireline, wireless and internet businesses and their expanding customer franchise in these areas. "Together, our organisations are well-positioned to provide the Indian public with end-to-end solutions for their telecommunication needs," he reasoned.

Coming to a more serious topic, Mr Tata wrote in the letter: "The challenge before us will be to establish uncompromising world-class standards of excellence in our services, at competitive prices.