Date:17/01/2007 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2007/01/17/stories/2007011703340400.htm

SingTel keen to hike stake in Bharti

Our Bureau

New Delhi , Jan. 16

Even as the UK-based Vodafone is looking to exit Bharti and pick up stake in Hutchison Essar, SingTel has evinced interest in increasing its stake in Bharti Airtel.

Singapore's leading telecom operator Singtel on Tuesday said it was committed to the long-term potential of the Indian market and would consider raising its stake in Bharti Airtel if it was offered right terms and conditions. Singtel holds about 31 per cent stake in Bharti Airtel.

Vodafone currently holds 10 per cent equity in Bharti Airtel , which it may have to sell if it acquires Hutchison Telecom's Indian stake due to regulatory issues. SingTel may pick the stake held by Vodafone in that case.

"We do review opportunities to increase our shareholdings in our existing associates," said a SingTel spokesperson. Indian telecom sector has been attracting investments from a number of multinational telecom companies.