By Inti Landauro
PARIS--Philippe Knoche, chief executive of beleaguered nuclear
engineer Areva SA (AREVA.FR), Thursday said companies other than
state-controlled power utility Electricite de France SA showed
interest in some of its units.
Mr. Knoche didn't name any of the possible buyers.
Areva, which has posted losses for four consecutive years, said
it will unveil a new strategic plan before reporting its first half
results at the end of July. As part of the new strategy, the firm
plans to sell assets and cut investment.
Earlier this week, EDF CEO Jean-Bernard Levy said he would make
Areva an offer to buy its nuclear unit Areva NP, which accounts for
around 40% of its revenue.
Mr. Levy didn't say how much his company was ready to pay. Mr.
Knoche said the company would make sure asset valuations are
"good."
After Mr. Levy's comments, Areva Chairman Philippe Varin said
the government, which controls more than 80% of both companies,
would ultimately make a decision.
French power utility Engie, formerly known as GDF Suez, said it
found some Areva assets attractive.
Mr. Varin also said the new strategy, to be announced in July,
will focus on the company's core business and development in
China.
Write to Inti Landauro at inti.landauro@wsj.com
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