GDF Suez (GSZ.FR) doesn't have a role in recapitalizing the
struggling nuclear group Areva SA (AREVA.FR), GDF Suez chief
executive Gerard Mestrallet says in a newspaper interview published
Friday.
After Areva last week warned of a $5.6 billion loss in 2014,
speculation has swirled over whether the 85% state-owned company
will need a capital injection. That speculation was fueled when
energy minister Segolene Royal said she wants Areva to find
synergies with state-controlled power utility Electricite de France
SA (EDF.FR) and the state Commission for Atomic Energy.
"We are watching carefully," Mr. Mestrallet says in the
interview with French daily Le Figaro. "Public authorities haven't
asked us anything yet and GDF Suez doesn't have a calling to own
capital in Areva," he adds, noting that GDF Suez isn't an equipment
maker.
Government spokesman Stephane Le Foll said Wednesday the state
won't take position on the matter until Areva presents a strategic
plan next week.
"Before this plan is presented, it wouldn't be very constructive
to foresee solutions," said Mr. Le Foll, who is also agriculture
minister.
Newspaper Web site: http://www.lefigaro.fr
-Write to William Horobin at william.horobin@wsj.com
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