Belgacom CEO Dominique Leroy said the state should not reduce its stake in the Belgian operator. The government still holds 53.5 percent of the incumbent operator, but the current government coalition is open to selling some of the shares as part of efforts to reduce the state's debt. Speaking to Flemish broadcaster VRT, Leroy said she would prefer the company remains in Belgian hands, in order to ensure key decisions are made in Belgium. This will benefit investment and employment, she said. Furthermore, the state can currently borrow at around 1 percent, while Belgacom offers a dividend return of around 6 percent, Leroy added. The operator's shares are up around 40 percent this year, following Leroy's appointment early in the year and the new strategy adopted by the company.
