NEWS

Ciments Français withdraw from negotiations with OSIC Sibirsky Holding
As the closing of the Share Purchase Agreement entered into with OJSC Holding Company Sibirskiy Cement for the sale by Ciments Français of the Set Group operations in Turkey did not occur by the deadline provided in the agreement, Ciments Français exercised on October 21, 2008 its right to terminate to the said agreement.

Ciments Français and SibCem: no sale at closing but talks continue
In relation to the Sale and Purchase Agreement between Ciments Français and OJSC Holding Company Sibirskiy Cement regarding the sale by Ciments Français of its SET Group operations in Turkey*, the transaction did not reach a successful completion on the scheduled Closing Date of October 20.