MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 7, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- International Paper (NYSE: IP) today announced that it has once again been named by FORTUNE magazine as the No. 1 company for the Forest and Paper Products sector in FORTUNE's annual report of "America's Most Admired Companies." The company also earned the eighth highest score out of more than 300 companies surveyed nationally in the area of Social Responsibility.

The survey assessed companies on eight key attributes of reputation: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment value and quality of products and services. International Paper leads the forest and paper products industry in every category.

The Most Admired survey was conducted by an independent management consulting firm on behalf of FORTUNE. The firm took the 10 largest companies by revenue in 63 industries and surveyed more than 3,000 executives, directors and securities analysts, who rated the companies in their own industries using the eight criteria.

"We're honored to be named the most admired company in the industry for the fifth straight year," said John Faraci, chairman and chief executive officer. "This is recognition of the talented employees of International Paper and their focus on serving our customers, strengthening our operations, and being responsible citizens in the communities where we live and work around the globe."

The Most Admired Companies list appears in the March issue of FORTUNE and is currently available at www.fortune.com.

About International Paper

Headquartered in the United States, International Paper has been a leader in the forest products industry for more than 100 years. The company is currently transforming its operations to focus on its global uncoated papers and packaging businesses, which operate and serve customers in the U.S., Europe, Latin America and Asia, as well as xpedx, an extensive North American merchant distribution system. International Paper is committed to environmental, economic and social sustainability, and has a long-standing policy of using no wood from endangered forests. To learn more, visit www.internationalpaper.com.

SOURCE:
International Paper

CONTACTS:
Amy Sawyer
+1-901-419-4312

Investors
Brian McDonald
+1-901- 419-4957

Ann-Marie Donaldson
+1-901-419-4967
all of International Paper