Kuwait-based Zain (formerly Mobile Telecommunications Co) is in "advanced talks" to buy 51 percent of Syriatel Mobile Telecom, a report in Al-Qabas newspaper said on Tuesday.   

Syriatel has 2.3 million customers and a 55 percent market share in Syria, according to its Web site. Syrian businessman Rami Makhlouf holds a majority shareholder stake.

"Al-Qabas has learned that advanced talks are going for Zain to acquire a 51 percent stake in Syriatel," the newspaper reported. It gave no other details.

Turkey's largest mobile phone operator Turkcell said last month it had decided to bid for Syriatel and was looking to buy at least 51 percent of the company. - Reuters