France Agreement with Australia

On September 15, 2021, France and Australia signed an agreement known as the “AUKUS” pact, which aims to enhance defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement has caused quite a stir in the international community and has been a subject of debate and discussion since it was announced.

The AUKUS agreement was formed between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The primary aim of the agreement is to counter the rising influence of China in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement focuses on the exchange of military technology, information sharing, and cooperation in the areas of artificial intelligence, cyber, and quantum technologies.

The deal has, however, raised the ire of France, which had previously signed a deal with Australia for the supply of submarines. The French government has expressed disappointment and frustration with the decision of Australia to terminate the deal, which has led to the cancellation of one of the biggest defense contracts in the world.

The deal was signed in 2016, and it was worth approximately $60 billion. France was slated to supply Australia with 12 conventional submarines as part of the deal. However, the AUKUS agreement means that Australia will now acquire nuclear-powered submarines instead, which will be developed by the UK and the US.

The decision of Australia to terminate the deal with France has not gone down well with the French government, which has accused Australia of breaching its earlier commitments and creating a climate of distrust. France has also recalled its ambassadors from the US and Australia, a move seen as a significant diplomatic rebuke.

The implications of the AUKUS agreement are significant, not just for the Indo-Pacific region but also for global politics. The agreement represents a shift in the balance of power towards a more assertive stance against China and reflects the growing influence of the US and its allies in the region.

In conclusion, the AUKUS agreement represents a significant development in the world of international politics, with far-reaching implications for the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. While it has caused diplomatic tensions between France, the US, and Australia, it remains to be seen how the deal will play out and whether it will achieve its aims of enhancing defense capabilities against China.