HAFSLUND ASA (HNA) APPROVES VATTENFALLS PURCHASE OF SHARES
Vattenfall was formerly also a main shareholder in Hafslund ASA, and the purchase of the block of shares from the National Insurance Fund will not reduce the number of private shareholders in Hafslund.
Vattenfall is a major participant in the Nordic and European Power Market. The company and its representatives have played a professional role in their ownership within Hafslund organization.
During the boards approval discussion of the acquisition, it became apparent that it was for the best that Hafslund in the long term remain stock listed and as far as possible independent. Thereby representing a private alternative to the public ownership within the power industry in Norway. This target will be sought also in future strategic acquisitions where Hafslund seeks to play a mayor part, although the final solution might be through other constellations.
Oslo, 23rd of August 2000