(Telecompaper) Ericsson said it was not in talks on a merger with or acquisition by Cisco. The stated "noted the recent speculation in the press and financial markets regarding an interest by Cisco to acquire Ericsson". This follows the announcement of a major sales and technology partnership between the two network equipment giants. Ericsson CEO Hans Vestberg said the companies negotiated the agreement for a year "and there have not been any discussions whatsoever on a merger or an acquisition".