Australia’s decision to exit an agreement with France for the construction of a submarine undermines the confidence between the two countries, the head of the French Foreign Ministry Jean-Yves Drian said. He called the decision of the Australian authorities to the back and said that he would expect explanations from them. The transaction of the two countries was estimated at $ 66 billion, writes Kommersant.
Foreign Minister Forest said that he was called by the actions of the Australian authorities. “It is really a blow to the back. We built a trusting relationship with Australia, and this trust is undermined. I’m angry, the allies do not do that,” the minister said, calling the decision of the Australian authorities “Cruel and Unpredictable”.
Australia in 2017 entered into a contract with the French shipbuilding company Naval Group on 12 submarines, their cost was estimated at 90 billion Australian dollars ($ 66 billion). It was the largest defense contract in the history of Australia. The United States, the United Kingdom and Australia have previously announced the creation of Aukus Alliance on September 15. As part of agreements, Australia will equip atomic submarines without nuclear weapons. It will also purchase American Tomahawk Winged Rockets.