Brussels, 06/05/2002 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has authorised the acquisition by French company Vivendi-Universal of Liberty's stake in Multithématiques, a thematic channels group (Planète, Ciné classics and Seasons). This operation will increase Vivendi's shareholding in Multithématiques in which it will have joint control with Lagardère. Multithématiques is currently controlled by Canal +, a subsidiary of Vivendi-Universal, Lagardère and Liberty Media. In the present operation, Vivendi-Universal is buying Liberty's 27.4% stake in Multithématiques, thereby retaining joint control with Lagardère. The Commission is not opposing the deal since it will not significantly change the competitive situation of the market as Vivendi already held joint control in Multithématiques. Furthermore, the channels owned by Multithématiques do not provide any sports or first window films, two key elements of pay-TV in which Canal + is particularly strong and, therefore, Vivendi Universal's position will not be strengthened as a result.