EXHIBIT 1
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4 April 2005
WPP GROUP PLC ("WPP")
WPP and Video International Group to develop
a stronger partnership in Russia
WPP and Video International Group ("VI"), Russia's leading communications
services group, have conditionally agreed to form a number of joint companies,
which will operate in Russia and throughout the Confederation of Independent
States.
The partnership will cover certain of their existing businesses: VI's current
advertising agency, Ravi, will operate in conjunction with JWT, Xxxxx VIAG will
be relaunched as Red Cell and CIA Russia will be relaunched as Mediaedge:cia. VI
and WPP will develop 141 Worldwide, an integrated marketing services agency, in
the market. In addition, a company providing back office and support services in
media investment management will also be formed.
This initiative continues WPP's strategy of developing its networks in
faster-growing markets and communications services sectors.
For further information, please contact:
Xxxxx XxXxxx, WPP 44-20 7408 2204
xxx.xxx.xxx
