Suntech – which has launched legal action over the issue – says the bonds were pledged to it as security in connection with an investment it made in Global Solar Fund (GSF), an investment group with interests in 145MW of PV projects in Italy.

The New York-listed company told its shareholders this morning: “As part of Suntech's initiative to monetise its investment in GSF, the company engaged outside counsel to review and assist the process.

“As