The Qatari operator says the $669mfacility, which is backed by Qatar National Bank, will also allow the allianceto purchase a pair of newbuildings.

In a statement the company noted it is thesecond refinancing packaged the group has secured in recent months, whichpushes the collective total to $1.33bn.

“Together the two transactions have allowed Nakilatto double the size of Maran Nakilat’s fleet from four vessels to eight vessels andto increase its ownership in the joint venture by 10 percent,” it added.

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