Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has signed legislation to privatise state-owned telecom operator Ukrtelekom.

The government owns 92.9% of Ukrtelekom. The sale of the operator has been delayed a number of times. The latest plan is to hold a public auction for the company some time in 2007.

Some government predictions have a 50% stake selling for US$ 3.0 billion, though analysts predict a much lower figure. Analysts have said much of Ukrtelecom's equipment is outdated, making the company less attractive to investors.

Source: AP - WDR/Intelecon Regulatory News