Amid the raging controversy over Mittal Steel’s takeover bid for rival Arcelor, the EU, on 15 February said it was against racial discrimination and the issue should be treated only on commercial considerations. "The EU is of a clear view that nationality in such cases is not relevant and it should be decided according to the laws in place and commercial merits," European Commission Director General – Trade, Mr David O’Sullivan said. "It is unfortunate that allegations of racial discrimination have crept in the issue," he added. However, he made it clear the EU would be concerned if there were any violations of competition rules and the takeover created a monopoly kind of situation.
