MerchantBridge Mourns Tragic Death of Two Senior Executives

BEIRUT, Lebanon, February 5, 2011 - The Chairman, Board members and staff of MerchantBridge, a leading
international private equity group with extensive investments around the
world and backed by investors across the Middle East, met today in Beirut to
mourn the tragic deaths of two of their esteemed colleagues, Basil Al-Rahim
and Abdallah Lahoud.

Mr Al Rahim, the founder and Chief Executive of MerchantBridge, and Mr
Lahoud, Partner of MerchantBridge, were en route from Sulaimaniyah to Beirut
when their plane crashed in unknown circumstances over Iraq.

Speaking from Beirut today, MerchantBridge Chairman, Abdulaziz Al
Abdulkader said:

"Our thoughts are with the families of our much loved brothers, friends
and colleagues Basil and Abdallah. We will pray for them and may God have
mercy on their souls. We give thanks for all they have achieved in their
lives. Speaking as Chairman of MerchantBridge, I would also like to ask that
they be remembered for everything they have contributed to the commercial
regeneration of the Middle East and in particular to Iraq.

"The partners and employees of MerchantBridge intend to continue the
valued work of our colleagues Basil and Abdallah. We ask for a period of calm
reflection whilst we decide how we best continue to advise our investors and
partners."

Note to Editors

1) For all media enquiries please contact Eric Le Blan on
Eric.leBlan@mbih.com

2) Detailed biographies of Mr Al Rahim and Mr Lahoud can be
found at www.merchant-bridge.com

3)Mary Khamasmieh, M: Communications, Mobile: +971-50-2731753

Mary Khamasmieh, M: Communications, Mobile: +971-50-2731753, For all media enquiries please contact Eric Le Blan on Eric.leBlan at mbih.com