The wage arrears at telecom operator Tmcel should be regularized next week, the Minister of Transport and Communications said today in parliament.

"I can say that the issue of salaries at Tmcel will be resolved by next week, in its entirety, I already have the money and the payment process is being done," declared Mateus Magala, quoted by Lusa.

The Mozambican state-owned telecommunications operator has experienced recurrent delays in the payment of salaries.

Magala justified the situation with a negative balance of the company, whose reorganization and restructuring are being studied by the Government, along with Mozambique Airlines (LAM).

"The health of these companies is fragile, we have to recognize this, hence we have initiated a reform process," said the minister, in line with statements made in recent months.

Magala reiterated that studies are underway on the future of the two companies, promising a decision by early next year, without specifying.

The governor expressed optimism yesterday (Wednesday) regarding the recovery of LAM, stating that the company has started to register positive operating results since last year.

He admitted that the state-owned air carrier's improving situation has been delayed by a huge "debt baggage," slowing the path to a positive net position.

The minister also told MPs that the executive is keeping its promise to pay subsidies to road passenger carriers in cities to curb the increase in transport fare derived from the fuel hike and global inflationary wave.