Vodfone Group (LON:VOD) will go forward in a strategic A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) partnership with Truphone it has been announced today.

The agreement will give Truphone access to Vodafone UK's network to deliver voice and data services to its Truphone Local Anywhere customers.

The partnership is the first in a series of building blocks for the launch of Truphone Local Anywhere, a global SIM-based mobile service, launching today.

Similar wholesale partnerships are being put together in other key travel destinations around the world in time for launch and rollout throughout 2010. Truphone Local

Anywhere is a ground breaking new global SIM-based service from Truphone that offers people with an international lifestyle an opportunity to save significant money on their mobile phone bills.

Using Truphone's patented infrastructure and IN core network the Truphone Local Anywhere SIM allows customers to enjoy local rates in countries where Truphone has wholesale partnerships and also have the option of having local mobile numbers for those countries all on a single SIM.

For those countries where Truphone does not have operator agreements, Truphone Local Anywhere offers significant savings over normal roaming charges.

Under the agreement, Truphone will have access to Vodafone's network meaning that calls made by Truphone customers in the UK, as well as Truphone Local Anywhere roaming calls originating and terminating in the UK, will be delivered via the Vodafone UK network.

Geraldine Wilson, CEO of Truphone said: "Truphone Local Anywhere is a truly revolutionary service for people with an international lifestyle allowing them to 'stay local' as they travel around the world. We are delighted to announce this partnership with Vodafone which will give our customers access to a high quality network in the UK."

Tim Stone, Director of Business Development and Wholesale, Vodafone UK said: "We're excited to be partnering with Truphone for their Truphone Local Anywhere service. This new relationship demonstrates Vodafone's commitment to the wholesale market and supports additional growth in our already successful wholesale portfolio. By targeting the international travelling community, this partnership opens up new opportunities for Vodafone UK."