Belgian PM talking to private groups about Fortis stake

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2008

BRUSSELS, (AFP) — Belgium's prime minister said Sunday that he was in talks with private groups on the future of the troubled Fortis financial group and that there would be an announcement "within hours".

Over the weekend the Belgian government has been mulling the future of Fortis, amid speculation that it could totally nationalise the Belgian part of the ailing group or sell assets to BNP Paribas or another suitor.

Luxembourg officials were doing likewise a week after both countries partially nationalised Fortis.

Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme promised there would be a "clear and strong" signal on the bank's future by Monday morning, when stock market trading resumes.

"The negotiations are still going on, with contacts with several private...