AKIPRESS.COM - VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), a global digital operator that provides converged connectivity and online services, announces that it has signed an agreement for the sale of its 50.1% indirect stake in Beeline Kyrgyzstan to CG Cell Technologies, which is wholly owned by CG Corp Global.

The sale is a part of VEON’s strategy to simplify the Group’s structure and focus on its large markets where it can create scale with its DO1440 digital operator model, providing digital services in finance, entertainment, healthcare and education. The transaction values Beeline Kyrgyzstan’s business at 3.4x 2023 EBITDA (pre-IFRS16), the company said.

“Over the past 2 years, we have transformed Beeline Kyrgyzstan into a winning operation, with 7 consecutive quarters of double-digit revenue growth, high penetration and quality of 4G services and solid foundations in digital offerings. I am proud of the work that the team has achieved under Andrey Pyatakhin’s leadership; and pleased to pass the baton to Chaudhary Group to develop Beeline’s work further and with greater focus, supporting the digital transformation of Kyrgyzstan,” said Kaan Terzioglu, Group CEO of VEON.

CG Corp Global issued the following statement on the agreement: “We are very pleased to become a major investor in the Kyrgyzstan telecommunications market with the purchase of the majority stake in Beeline Kyrgyzstan. We are excited to cooperate with our partners in this joint venture as we continue to develop the business, ensuring that customers continue to get the modern, high-quality and reliable connectivity and digital services they have come to expect.”

Completion of the sale of VEON’s stake in Beeline Kyrgyzstan, which is held by VIP Kyrgyzstan Holding AG, to CG Cell Technologies Designated Activity Company is subject to relevant regulatory approvals.