fibre-optic network linking the major cities of South America with the US, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, Asia and Europe.

Global Crossing said it would build the South American Crossing network in three phases. The first two phases will provide Argentina and Brazil with connectivity and will go into service in the fourth quarter of 2000. The final phase, covering the rest of South America, will be finished in the first quarter of 2001.

Yesterday's announcement is part of Global Crossing's plan to build and operate a global fibre-optic network for data, voice, video and Internet transmissions. The company previously announced plans to build other networks to help it reach its goal of connecting 100 major cities on four continents.