Orange CEO Christel Heydemann emphasizes the necessity of consolidation among European telecom firms to compete with larger foreign rivals. She discusses the challenges of reduced competition and higher prices in the French market due to potential takeovers, specifically referencing a failed bid for SFR. Heydemann highlights the importance of investment in a rapidly evolving market and the EU's push for business consolidation to enhance competitiveness. The article also touches on the need for regulatory modernization and the varying market realities across Europe.