The immediate lifting of restrictions on the direct interconnection of mobile telecommunications networks under Article 3 (d) of Directive 90/388/EEC as inserted by Directive 96/2/EC with regard to mobile and personal communications would expose the substantial international traffic revenues of Portugal Telecom and could threaten its ability to further ensure the universal provision of voice-telephony in Portugal on economically acceptable conditions. The development of trade would be affected by an additional implementation period until 1 January 1999 in such a way as not to be contrary to the interests of Community.
