Fincantieri's ambitions to run STX France may not be over after all.

French economy minister Bruno Le Maire has been reported as saying he is open to the Italian yard group managing the St Nazaire plant, days after France temporarily nationalised it to prevent Fincantieri taking a large stake.

The two countries can agree on equal co-ownership, with Fincantieri being given operational control, he told the Corriere daily.