The French ambassador will return to Canberra, following their withdrawal in the wake of Australia’s controversial AUKUS submarine manufacturing deal.
The federal government’s AUKUS pact saw Australia blindside the French government by backing out of a deal to manufacture military submarines in the European nation, instead turning to a deal with the US and UK to galvanise defensive capabilities against China.
The French ambassador has two goals for his return to Canberra: to redefine France’s relationship with Australia, and to protect French interests as the AUKUS pact is implemented.