Govt positive towards Bharti-MTN deal: Pranab

The government today said it had a positive approach towards the proposed $23-billion deal between Bharti and South African MTN, even as the time for exclusive talks between the two companies ends tomorrow.

"Both Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and myself have said we are taking a positive approach and outlook towards it," Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told reporters on the sidelines of a book release function here.

Asked whether the South African government officials, who were here last week, got back to Indian authorities, he said, "You know we are working on it."

Meanwhile, there are indications that both companies are likely to extend the exclusive talks period beyond September 30, in the absence of clarity on the deal. This, however, could not be confirmed.

The government also said it has not received any proposal from either Bharti or MTN.

"Our officials had discussions with the South African authorities, explaining our legal position (on dual listing) and asked them what it is that they need," Finance Secretary Ashok Chawla said earlier in the day.