SAO PAULO, June 5 (Reuters) - Brazilian pulp maker

Suzano preferred to pursue a joint venture model with

Kimberly-Clark ( KMB ) as it would enable a combination of complementary

competencies, mitigate risks and have minimal impact on its

leverage ratio, CEO Beto Abreu told Reuters on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, Suzano said in a securities filing it

has agreed to buy 51% of Kimberly-Clark's ( KMB ) international tissue

business for $1.73 billion.

Suzano expects to close the deal by mid-2026. The company

will also have the option to purchase Kimberly-Clark's ( KMB ) remaining

ownership interest, starting three years after the closing.