(see related) Lufthansa said Monday that it is analyzing the objections presented by the European Commission (EC) on its planned acquisition of a 41% stake in Ita Airways and that it is ready "to propose constructive solutions that are compatible with an aviation economy as competitive as theItalian one".
"We are making further progress with our planned investment in Italy Airways," said Lufthansa in a statement.
"We will analyze the objections presented by the EU Commission today, discuss each point in detail with the antitrust authority and, in the next steps, continue to cooperate constructively with the EU Commission.
"As suggested by Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, we will submit a remedy proposal to the authority in order to address the remaining concerns.
We remain confident that the transaction will be approved, alsobecause we are convinced that competition in Europe, especially in Italy, can be enhanced by Ita Airways being part of theLufthansa Group," added the German carrier.
In its statement of objections sent on Monday the EC said it is concerned the transaction may reduce competition on a number of short-haul routes connecting Italy with countries in Central Europe and on on a number of long-haul routes between Italy and the US, Canada and Japan, as well as creating or strengthening the dominant position of the Italian airline at Milan-Linate airport.
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