MGM Networks hasannounced a deal with Russia's largest Pay-TV provider NTV-PLUS to localise anddistribute a Russian-language version of the MGM channel to NTV-PLUS'direct-to-home subscribers.

The agreementfollows the launch in 2002 of MGM Channel in the former Soviet Union countrieson a number of cable and MMDS systems.

"We have beenassiduously trying to expand our networks in the fast-growing Russian market,"Bruce Tuchman, MGM Networks executive vice president said in a statement.

"The capstone ofthese efforts is our deal with NTV-PLUS, Russia's leading pay-TV provider,which positions us to take full advantage of this market's growth."

MGM Channel willpresent round-the-clock content in the market from its 4,000-title library,including Marty, Sweet Smell Of Success, Rollerball, Interiors and The Fantasticks.

"We feelhonoured to be the first to present the MGM Channel in the Russian language,"Alexander Ordjonikidze, NTV-PLUS Satellite general director added.

"Our maincommitment is to give our subscribers the best content possible. This year wehave launched several new channels, and the number of subscribers has doubledon the previous year.

"We are surethat the partnership with MGM will be an extra advantage for people who arethinking of buying a satellite dish."