China News Agency, Paris, September 20 (Reporter Li Yang) French ambassador to the United States Etienne said in Paris on the 20th local time that the French side has never been informed that the submarine deal between France and Australia will be cancelled.

His recall to the country meant that "the situation is serious."

  Etienne, who returned to France, said in an interview with French media in Paris on the 20th that the French side had never been informed that the French-Australian submarine deal would be cancelled.

He revealed that just a few days before Australia announced its nuclear submarine cooperation agreement with the United States and Britain, French officials were still meeting with Australian officials. At that time, there was no sign that the French-Australian submarine deal would be cancelled.

  Etienne reiterated that the cancellation of the French-Australian submarine deal surprised the French side.

Etienne's above statement once again hit back at the relevant remarks made by Australian Prime Minister Morrison the day before.

Morrison still insisted on the 19th that he had raised concerns about the Australian-French submarine contract.

  Australia decided in 2016 that the French military ship manufacturer "Navy Group" would build its submarine fleet to replace its long-serving submarines. However, as Australia and the United States reached a nuclear submarine cooperation agreement, Australia no longer needs French-built conventional submarines. Australia The submarine contract with France was cancelled.

  France has recalled its ambassador to the United States and Australia.

French officials said on the 19th that French President Macron will ask US President Biden to clarify the dispute over the submarine contract.

  Etienne said that his departure from Washington to return to Paris was the French government's response to the incident, and it was a "special procedure" which meant that "the situation is serious."

He said that the United States knows the importance of the French-Australian submarine contract to France, "both industrial and strategic."

  Etienne also revealed that he had met with President Macron and Foreign Minister Le Drian on the evening of the 19th to analyze the situation together and discuss "what can be done next."

He did not disclose more details of the meeting.

(over)