Dr. Dieter Zetsche, the Chairman of the Board of DaimlerChrysler AG has publicly confirmed that discussions have taken place with interested parties regarding future options for the Chrysler Group.
"In this context, I can confirm that we are talking with some of the potential partners who have shown a clear interest", Zetsche is quoted as saying in the text of the speech he will deliver at the Annual Meeting 2007 in Berlin today.
However, Zetsche continued, "But it is also true that we need to keep all options open, and that I cannot disclose any details, because we need to have the maximum scope for maneuver." The company's management requires "the greatest possible flexibility so that we can identify and then professionally implement the best possible solution," according to a company statement.
The process of evaluating partners is based on criteria that were spelling out in February under the Recovery and Transformation plan says Zetsche.
The company wants to:
* enhance DaimlerChrysler's financial strength in a sustainable way and increase enterprise value;
* create the right conditions for a clear strategic focus for DaimlerChrysler;
* make the Chrysler Group's business system competitive and profitable on a sustainable basis;
* find the best possible option for the employees.
