RIM hangs tough on bid for Nortel wireless assets

TORONTO — Communication industry analysts say Research In Motion is refusing to budge in its pursuit of Nortel Networks’ wireless business because its key technology patents could help secure RIM’s future as a mobile phone technology leader.

Veritas Investment Research Corp. analyst Neeraj Monga says RIM is hoping that Nortel technology can patch up some of its weaker points and prepare it for fourth-generation wireless networks.

RIM has been trying to buy Nortel assets for nearly a year, but said earlier this week that it has been repeatedly blocked by company officials.

RIM said the Canadian government should get involved in the dispute to protect national security, but Canadian officials refused to intervene.