Message from Greg Ahlberg, Regional Director

Today we announced Abbott and GE have agreed to terminate our contract for the sale of Abbott's core laboratory and point-of-care diagnostics businesses to GE.

This was an extremely complex transaction with operations in more than 70 countries, and ultimately there were many issues that the two companies were unable to resolve. As a result, it became clear that it is in the best interests of ADD and APOC employees, our customers and our shareholders to move the business forward as part of Abbott.

I would like to thank our customers for their support over the past six months and for continuing to believe in the Abbott business. I would also like to extend my personal appreciation to the management and staff of ADD and APOC for their patience and diligence during this period.

Moving forward, we are committed to serving our customers and growing our business with intensity and enthusiasm. I look forward to a vibrant second half of 2007. As usual, my door is open.

Greg Ahlberg
Regional Director Australia / New Zealand