Latham and Watkins transfers French banking and finance specialist to Middle East

Previously based in the firm's Paris office, Vermeulen advises clients on a wide range of matters, including acquisition, project, real estate and structured finance as well as debt restructuring.

Vermeulen will play a crucial role in assisting Latham & Watkins' French clients with their cross-border investments and strategic growth plans for the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Craig Stoehr, counsel in Latham & Watkins' Doha office, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Olivier to the team. He will be an invaluable asset to French companies who are looking to make strategic investments in the region, as well as bringing to bear his French market knowledge and business contacts for companies and investment funds with an eye on investment opportunities in Europe."

One of the preeminent global law firms operating in the region, Latham & Watkins has been advising Qatari government institutions and private company leaders both in their national and international strategic transactions since 1994.

Among others, the firm's recent representative matters in Qatar include:

- Advising the State of Qatar, along with its State Finance Policy Committee and Ministry of Economy and Finance, in connection with the April 2009 $3.0bn capital markets sovereign bond offering;

- Advising Qatar Holding LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority) on its acquisition of approximately 6% of Barclays plc for £1.45bn in July 2008 and its further investment for £1.75bn in November 2008; and

- Advising the Qatar Investment Authority in its strategic alliance with NYSE Euronext to build a new internationally integrated securities exchange in Doha, Qatar, including an equity investment and provision of technology and services by NYSE Euronext.