DENVER, Mar. 10 -- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved the merger of Qwest Communications International Inc. and US West Inc. The FCC's order is contingent upon its approval of Qwest's plan for divestiture of in-region long distance customers prior to completion of the merger. The FCC's prompt action reinforces our belief that this transaction creates a pro-competitive broadband Internet communications company that is committed to setting a new standard in delivering superior customer support, advanced communications services and shareowner value, said Joseph P. Nacchio, chairman and CEO of Qwest. Solomon D. Trujillo, US West's chairman, president and CEO, commented, This is a significant milestone. The FCC's approval clears a major hurdle in our effort to assemble the first true end-to-end broadband network with global reach and local touch.