Unisource, seeking link in America, may expand its ties with AT&T Corp

Unisource NV, a Dutch-based telecommunications company, may be forming a partnership with AT&T as part of its effort to improve its trans-Atlantic services. Although neither company has provided any details on the possible partnership, Unisource has confirmed that AT&T is one of the companies under consideration. Unisource Pres Viesturs Vucins reports that the nature of the partnership could involve a commercial contract, joint venture or equity investment. AT&T reports that there have been a number of conversations regarding Unisource's recent agreement to join WorldPartners Assn, a consortium for worldwide business communications. An AT&T-Unisource partnership would significantly boost AT&T's position in the $128 billion Western European telecommunications market. The deal is far from certain, however, partly due to the concern expressed by Unisource shareholders.