19 Dec 2012 15:22

Communications Ministry says not asked to discuss Rostelecom, Tele2 deal

MOSCOW. Dec 19 (Interfax) - A possible alliance between Rostelecom and Tele2 has not yet been referred to the Communications Ministry for discussion.

"The decision has not yet been referred at state level," Communications Minister Nikolai Nikiforov told reporters.

The deal could have been discussed on the sidelines, he said.

Nikiforov said the state had a general position that it is not desirable for state companies to buy private firms. But other options such as an asset swap are possible in the case of Rostelecom and Tele2, he said.