EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) announced today that its DISH Network™ satellite television service has added ABN-America, an English-language, African television network channel, to its international programming schedule. The addition of ABN-America, the first Africa-based channel available on DISH Network, underscores the company's leadership role in broadcasting international programming. DISH Network offers more than 100 international channels from over 25 countries in more than 25 languages, including Arabic, Farsi, Hindi, Portuguese, Mandarin, Polish and Russian.

"DISH Network is leading the industry in offering exclusive and unique international programming options to customers here in the U.S.," said Tracy Thompson, EchoStar's vice president of International Programming. "ABN-America provides African programming to the North American viewing audience, featuring the best line-up from 54 countries that will fill the screen with a wealth of cultural diversity."

"The ABN-American channel is a strong voice of Africa and Africans in the United States" said Dr. Christian Akale, ABN-America's chairman and CEO. "It is a gathering place for the African community and their American friends. ABN-America will cover Africa in ways that reflect respect for the dignity and intelligence of its people."

The programming on ABN-America features some of the most popular genres of shows from Africa, including movies, documentaries, specials, music videos and other human-interest specials about Africa and Africans abroad. Programs available on ABN-America include the "African Film Festival," hosted by Piso Saydee, which features comedies and dramas from the continent, specials like "Under the Baobab Tree," featuring the renowned storyteller Nothando Zulu, as well as programs for African youth in North America. ABN-America will also air special political events, festivals, musical concerts and classic African football games. Please visit www.abnamerica.com for more information.

Customers can add ABN-America on an "a la carte" basis for $14.99 per month. Extra equipment may be needed to receive ABN-America.

For additional information or to order this channel, please visit www.dishnetwork.com, call 1-800-333-DISH (3474), or contact your local DISH Network retailer.

About EchoStar Communications Corporation

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 11 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network™, the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last four years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. J.D. Power and Associates ranks DISH Network No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction among Cable/Satellite TV Subscribers. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).