Nissan is "open to dialogue" as FCA launches Renault merger proposal

TOKYO – Nissan Motor President and CEO Hiroto Saikawa has declared open to discussions to strengthen the Japanese automaker's alliance with French Renault, following Nikkei's report that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is about to propose a merger with Renault.

"I am open to any prospective discussion aimed at strengthening the alliance," Saikawa said, while refusing to comment on what he termed "suppositions".

He added that the senior management of his existing alliance, consisting of Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors, would meet later in the week and that he intended to exchange views openly and openly. to conduct a constructive dialogue ".

Mr. Saikawa asked the reporters when he was informed of the merger proposal and said, "I can not tell you, but I will tell you when I can." A merger between FCA and Renault would create a huge global automotive alliance, with sales of 15 million cars a year, including Nissan and Mitsubishi.

Renault's management will travel to Japan to attend a regular meeting of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance at Nissan's headquarters in Yokohama on Wednesday.

Industry observers will determine whether Renault will communicate to its Japanese partners the details of the merger talks with FCA.