"We are pleased the court has requested VimpelCom to disclose additional documents and information concerning the URS acquisition," said Kai Rosenberg, Telenor Vice President. "To date, VimpelCom has refused to disclose detailed information concerning this transaction, except when ordered to do so by a court. If Alfa and VimpelCom management have nothing to hide in relation to this transaction, we do not understand why VimpelCom has resisted disclosing to VimpelCom shareholders the documents and information we have requested."

The case is one of three lawsuits filed by Telenor in connection with VimpelCom's acquisition of URS. Telenor opposed the transaction because it was not approved or completed in accordance with VimpelCom's charter and Russian law and because it was grossly over-priced.

"As part of our efforts to minimize the harm done to VimpelCom shareholders, we will continue our fight to have the transaction unwound and the proceeds of the purchase price returned to VimpelCom," said Rosenberg. “We look forward to the hearing on the merits on 18 October 2006."