(SIBUR) -- SIBUR has reached an
agreement for the acquisition of a 26.3% stake in the company Cherepovets "Azot"
from a group of investors. The acquisition is aimed at improving the current
capitalization of SIBUR business with respect to the production of mineral
fertilizers. The company's strategy to phase out the non-core lines of the
business through their sale or merger with other producers of nitrogen
fertilizer has not been changed. The deal is expected to be concluded following
the approval from the appropriate regulatory authorities.