- Netherlands: the Dutch government has sold off 6.2% off its share in KPN, reducing its stake to 14%. Shares were set at 7.20 euros each, which would make an overall amount of EUR 1.08 bn. - Turkey: thirteen candidates have put in tenders for 55% of the stock of the number one player in the Turkish telephone operating business, TURK TELEKOMUNIKASYON (19 million customers, 61,000 employees). Candidates include TELECOM ITALIA, from Spain TELEFONICA and the Belgian company BELGACOM. The deadline for submitting offers was set for 31 May. The company taking over is expected to be known by summer. - Pakistan: Pakistan has begun a privatisation programme. By 28 January, offers for 26% of PAKISTAN TELECOMMUNICATION have to be submitted. The government hops to get Asian operators involved such as SINGAPORE TELECOM and TELEKOM MALAYSIA. The government also launched procedures for the sale of 51% of PAKISTAN STATE OIL (the deadline for offers was set for 4 March) and 73% of KARACHI ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CORPORATION.