In the midst of the diplomatic crisis, the explanations of the Australian Minister of Defense were particularly awaited by Paris.
And according to Peter Dutton, his country has nothing to be ashamed of.
Australia was indeed "frank, open and honest" with France about its concerns over a massive agreement to purchase French submarines before tearing up the contract.
Speaking to Sky News Australia on Sunday, the defense minister highlighted the budget overrun and years of delay in executing the contract.
He further said he understood the "annoyance of the French", but added that "the suggestions that the Australian government has not reported its concerns defy, frankly, what is on the public record and certainly what is on the public record. has been said publicly for a long time ”.
Parly informed directly by Dutton
Peter Dutton further claimed to have personally expressed these concerns to his French counterpart, Florence Parly. He also stressed the "need for Australia to act in its national interest" which is to acquire nuclear powered submarines. According to the minister, Canberra was unable to buy French nuclear-powered ships because they need to be reloaded, unlike American submarines, so only the latter are suitable for nuclear-free Australia.
Even though France is furious with Australia's decision to pull out of a 90 billion Australian dollars (around 56 billion euros) contract, "we want to work very closely with the French and we will continue to do so. in the future, ”said Peter Dutton.
But, recalling its ambassadors in Canberra and Washington and accusing its allies of "lying" about their plans, it will take a little time before Paris hears it that way.
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