Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd.(NYSE: STP), one of the world's largest producers of solar panels, today announced that it has signed a forbearance agreement with the holders of more than 60% of the Company's 3% Convertible Notes (the "Notes"). Under the forbearance agreement, in the event the Company does not make payments due under the Notes on March 15, 2013, the signing bondholders agree not to exercise their rights under the Notes and the related indenture until May 15, 2013, subject to certain market-standard early termination events.

The forbearance agreement will enable Suntech to continue to work with holders of the Notes with a view to achieving a consensual restructuring. 

David King, Suntech's CEO, said, "The forbearance agreement demonstrates bondholders' support for Suntech and provides an excellent platform to further discussions towards a mutually agreeable restructuring of the Notes. We are making progress and are working to find a resolution soon. At the same time, we are continuing our cost and operational review to further improve our efficiency."