BRUSSELS, BELGIUM–(EMWNews – August 7, 2008) –

In response to today’s media reports about the approval process

regarding the joint venture with Ping An, Fortis and Ping An confirm

that this process is ongoing.

The regulatory application is proceeding as normal. Target is to

close the process in the second half of this year.

Fortis is an international provider of banking and insurance services

to personal, business and institutional customers. We deliver a total

package of financial products and services through our own

high-performance channels and via intermediaries and other partners.

Fortis ranks among Europe’s top 20 financial institutions. We have a

presence in over 50 countries and a dedicated, professional workforce

of more than 65,000. All this makes us a leader in financial services

in Europe, a top 3 private banker and a top tier asset manager. More

information is available at www.fortis.com.

Press Contacts:

Brussels:           +32 (0)2 565 35 84 Utrecht: +31 (0)30 226 32 19



Investor Relations:

Brussels:           +32 (0)2 565 53 78 Utrecht: +31 (0)30 226 65 66

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