BARCELONA -- Mobile World Congress 2011 -- High Tech Computer Corp. (HTC) (Taiwan: 2498) CEO Peter Chou understands that Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) and Nokia Corp. (NYSE: NOK) are doing what they have to do, even if a hard road remains in front of them.

When asked his view on the partnership during a keynote panel here, he said that from HTC's view, they are keen on the arrangement, because it will make the ecosystem stronger. (See Nokia Unveils Major Revamp.)

As Chou noted, HTC has always been a strong partner for Microsoft, but it's also committed to Android. Despite fears that this deal would push HTC deeper into Android's arms, Chou said that HTC has been working with Microsoft for more than a decade, and he counts CEO Steve Ballmer as a good friend. "We are very committed to Windows Mobile," he added.

"From my chair, I believe Microsoft and Nokia are doing what they have to do," he told attendees, whilst sitting in a chair. "We are one of their lead partners for Windows Phone 7, so we are positive, because this combination will surely make the ecosystem stronger. As a strong player in WP7, we will benefit from it."

An HTC WP7 device was not amongst those the handset maker announced Tuesday at MWC, but it does have several on the market already. (See Tata Offers HTC 7 Mozart and Windows 7 Portfolio Unveiled.)

— Sarah Reedy, Senior Reporter, Light Reading Mobile