The Russian government might sell its entire controlling stake in Rostelecom, according to Federal State Property Management Agency (FSPMA) director Olga Dergunova.
Asked whether 100% of Rostelecom could be privatised this year, Dergunova told reporters…
The Russian government might sell its entire controlling stake in Rostelecom, according to Federal State Property Management Agency (FSPMA) director Olga Dergunova.
Asked whether 100% of Rostelecom could be privatised this year, Dergunova told reporters “[y]es, up to 100% absolutely”, Russia’s Prime Business News Agency reported. However, Dergunova added that there has not been a presidential order on the matter and preparations have not begun.
The agency could not be reached for further comment before deadline.
Communications and mass media minister Nikolai Nikiforov said in late 2012 that Rostelecom could be privatised in 2015 after it has completed its merger with state-owned telecoms holding company Svyazinvest.
Economic development minister Andrei Belousov has since been quoted by Russian media as saying his ministry is calling for the privatisation to take place this year.
The government holds its 55.17% stake in Rostelecom via Svyazinvest, the FSPMA and Vnesheconombank (VEB).
A 2012 presidential decree directing the Rostelecom-Svyazinvest merger said the government and VEB would retain a controlling stake of at least 50% in the new, merged company, which will operate under the name Rostelecom.
