Egypt-based Orascom Telecom continues to seek a way into the French mobile market via a fourth 3G license, according to reports. TeleGeography, citing an article in French journal Challenge, notes that Orascom wants to buy into the Numericable-Virgin Mobile consortium that is seeking endorsement for France’s fourth and final 3G license. Following reported failed talks with Iliad (Free) and Bollore Telecom over a possible tie-up, Orascom’s chairman Naguib Sawiris is now believed to be looking elsewhere in his bid to gain entry into the mature French mobile market. Orascom has previously said it is prepared to partner with a candidate for the 4th license.

In August the bidding process for France’s long-awaited fourth 3G license was launched by the country’s government, with an asking price of EUR240 million. The deadline for candidates to lodge their bids has been fixed at 29 October, with the granting of the license around eight months from that date.