Sanofi-aventis (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) announced that the European Commision has cleared sanofi-aventis' proposed acquisition of Genzyme Corporation unconditionally under EU merger control rules.

Sanofi-aventis welcomes this decision, which is a great requisite step in satisfactin of the condition to the tender offer relating to antitrust approvals.

The offer remains subject to the other conditions described in the Offer to Purchase filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on October 4, 2010, as amended to date.

About sanofi-aventis
Sanofi-aventis, a leading global pharmaceutical company, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions to improve the lives of everyone. Sanofi-aventis is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).