CanWest Buys The New Republic

    TORONTO, Feb. 27 /CNW/ - CanWest Global Communications Corp. ("CanWest")
today announced that a wholly owned subsidiary has acquired a 100% interest in
The New Republic, a 93 year old United States based political magazine. This
acquisition follows the purchase by CanWest in 2006 of a 30% interest.
    "The New Republic, similar to CanWest's other publications, has a strong
foundation and a proud history. We look forward to seeing it become even
stronger" said Tom Strike, President of CanWest MediaWorks International. "In
today's media environment, we need to place a priority on delivering quality
content to readers when, where and how they want it. The New Republic is
well-positioned to do just that".
    The magazine and its website are currently undergoing a major overhaul.
The makeover includes a new frequency of publication, bigger issues and a new
reader-friendly design. The enhanced website will be launched soon with more
daily digital content.
    Greg MacNeil, a well-respected veteran of Canadian publishing, is acting
as Interim Publisher. Marty Peretz will continue as Editor-in-Chief.

    This news release contains certain comments or forward-looking statements
that are based largely upon current expectations and are subject to certain
risks, trends and uncertainties. These factors could cause actual future
performance to vary materially from current expectations. The entities
disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statement
even if new information becomes available as a result of future events or for
any other reason.

    CanWest Global Communications Corp. (www.canwestglobal.com), (TSX: CGS
and CGS.A, NYSE: CWG) an international media company, is Canada's largest
media company. CanWest is Canada's largest publisher of daily newspapers and
also owns, operates and/or holds substantial interests in conventional
television, out-of-home advertising, specialty cable channels, web sites and
radio stations and networks in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Turkey,
Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

For further information: CanWest Global Communications Corp., Deb
Hutton, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Tel. (416) 383-2442