DALLAS, July 11 -- Alcatel and SDG Information Co., an optical fiber manufacturer in Shenzen, China, have decided to join forces in a plan to manufacture one million kilometers of Alcatel's single mode fiber by 2002, said Alcatel. The companies will operate out of Shenzen to supply China and possibly other parts of Asia as the demand for optical fiber continues to grow, said Alcatel. Alcatel has always been an active player in China, and this joint venture agreement continues to emphasize the strategic importance of China to us, said Yvon Raak, president of Alcatel's Telecom Products Division. SDGI is a highly reputable and strong player in the market. Alcatel has a 55 percent interest in the $28 million (US) joint venture and will be responsible for providing the process technology. SDG Information is a ten-year veteran of the optical fiber cable business, the company produces optical digital transmission equipment, access equipment, optical fiber and cable. The venture will initially employ about 120 people.