Semapa SGPS confirmed its Secil cement unit is in talks with Libya’s Al-Ahlia Cement Company over the possible acquisition of 50 per cent of the construction materials group.  
 
A Semapa spokesman confirmed reports that both companies have signed a declaration of intention which is hoped to lead to a memorandum of understanding soon. 
 
Press reports cited statements by both Portuguese and Libyan governments and coinciding with the official visit by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, which expressed support for the deal going ahead.