Bouygues Ord Share News (0HAN)

(ShareCast News) - Bouygues Telecom and Orange confirmed preliminary discussions on Tuesday with a view to a possible tie-up.The statements from the French telecoms operators followed several press reports over the last few weeks about a potential consolidation, which would cut the number of wireless carriers in France to three from four if it goes ahead.Orange said it has renewed discussions regarding a consolidation with Bouygues' telecoms unit but added that they are not limited by any particular calendar and hold no commitment to any particular predefined outcome.The company said it was exploring the opportunities available within the French telecoms market, "while keeping in mind that its investments and its solid position afford it a total independence in its approach"."Orange will act solely in the interests of its shareholders, its employees and its customers and will be particularly vigilant with regards to the value created through any resulting project," it said.Meanwhile, Bouygues said a confidentiality agreement between the two has been signed, but noted that no decisions have been taken and there is no guarantee there will be an outcome to the discussions.At 0913 GMT, Orange shares were up 1.2% to €15.37 while Bouygues was 1.8% higher at €37.84.