Mr. Bayazit has, since 1999, played an important role in ensuring the bank's prominent position within Turkey. After the Turkish financial crises of 2000 and 2001 and subsequent restructuring of the financial sector, Disbank was transformed from a niche player with a few branches to a nationwide retail bank. This remarkable performance under Mr. Bayazit's leadership led to the bank's acquisition by Fortis.

Karel de Boeck, CEO Fortis Commercial and Private Banking today stated: 'Mr. Bayazit has accomplished a tremendous amount in a short period, turning Disbank into one of Turkey's most modern and dynamic banks. The smooth integration and re-branding into Fortis Bank was a great achievement and put Fortis on the Turkish map in record time.' Mr. De Boeck, having achieved the main focus of creating alignment during the integration process, will step down from the board. At the same time Jacob Westerlaken of Fortis Insurance International will be appointed member of the Board.

Following the Ordinary General Assembly, Mr. Yvan De Cock will take up the position of CEO after getting regulatory approval. Yvan, 51, a Belgian citizen, holds Law and Business degrees from K.U.L. (Leuven) and EHSAL (Brussels) and has been CEO of Fortis Bank UK since 2002. He joined Generale Bank, one of the constituents of Fortis in 1984 and has extensive experience within Fortis in areas such as export and project finance, commodities finance and corporate banking. Yvan De Cock will be succeeded by Angus MacLennan as CEO of Fortis Bank UK. Angus will also remain Head of Merchant Banking in the UK.

Mr. Tayfun Bayazit's Chairmanship combined with the contribution of Yvan De Cock as new CEO will lead to a further enhancement of Fortis Turkey's position in the market.

Fortis is an international financial services provider engaged in banking and insurance. We offer our personal, business and institutional customers a comprehensive package of products and services through our own channels, in collaboration with intermediaries and through other distribution partners.

With a market capitalization of EUR 38.3 billion (31/03/2006), Fortis ranks among the twenty largest financial institutions in Europe. Our sound solvency position, our presence in 50 countries and our dedicated, professional workforce of 57,000 enable us to combine global strength with local flexibility and provide our clients with optimum support. More information is available on www.fortis.com