Seadrill Limited: Disclosure of Acceptance in Eastern Drilling


HAMILTON, Bermuda, May 16, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- In connection with the mandatory offer dated April 18, 2007, to acquire all outstanding shares in Eastern Drilling ASA at NOK135 per share, Seadrill Limited has received acceptances for a total of 3,210,985 shares equaling approximately 8.4 percent of the total number of outstanding shares and votes in Eastern Drilling. Counting the accepted shares and shares already owned, Seadrill now controls 27,615,246 shares which represent approximately 72.4 percent of the outstanding shares and votes in Eastern Drilling.

The acceptance period is open until 16:30 CET on May 18, 2007.


 Seadrill Limited
 Hamilton, Bermuda
 May 16, 2007