MacAndrews confirms talks with Kursiu Linija

MacAndrews confirms talks with Kursiu Linija    MacAndrews, a short-sea carrier owned by French carrier group CMA CGM, confirmed Friday in a press release that it is discussing possible linkups with Lithuanian carrier Kursiu Linija.
   MacAndrews said it is looking to expand its presence in the Baltic Sea, something that's been achieved to some degree through the company's own growth. Now the carrier is looking at joint ventures and acquisition.
   “We view some form of cooperation, or even closer relationship with Kursiu Linija, as being perfectly consistent with our strategic aim of growing a strong presence in the Baltic, beyond that we already have in Poland,” said David J. Halliday, MacAndrews chief executive officer.
   While the exact form of transaction is under negotiation, a conclusion is anticipated within weeks rather than months, the statement said.
      Arijus Ramonas, shareholder and managing director of Kursiu Linija, acknowledged in the release that “discussions are progressing well, and although not yet concluded, it seems the two companies are speaking the same language, and hold a similar vision.”
   Aside from its European short-sea activity, MacAndrews has developed a strong regional presence in the deep-sea trades between the United Kingdom and Europe and Middle East and Indian subcontinent.