An Arabic-language television network that offered $3.5 million for United Press International said it wants to keep the cash-starved news agency a complete wire service.
But UPI executives are barred from talking with Middle East Broadcasting Centre Ltd. while another potential buyer considers making a bid.The network, a London-based television group owned by several Saudi businessmen, has been broadcasting news and entertainment programs in the Middle East and southern Europe since last September.
It said Thursday in a letter to UPI lawyers that it was interested in keeping UPI going as a full-fledged wire service and was prepared to close the deal in 10 days.
Michael Costello, a Washington attorney advising the network, said it planned to establish its own worldwide news-gathering ability.