Yushchenko Gives Ukrtelecom & Odesa Portside Privatizations Green Light

President Viktor Yushchenko signed a law passed by the Verkhovna Rada that takes into account his suggested amendments, paving the way for the privatization of Ukrtelecom (UTEL: HOLD) and the Odesa Portside Fertilizer Plant in 2007. Alexander Paraschiy: In contrast to Yushchenko’s wish to see both companies in private hands, the State Property Fund only intends to sell small stakes in both companies. While leaving Odessa Portside under state control looks justified from the point of view of state security, the full privatization of UTEL is essential to making the company competitive on the telecom market. We expect further discussions between the President and coalition concerning the privatization of UTEL.