French President Emmanuel Macron ‘close to confirming’ Australia trip after submarines saga
French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly “close” to making a major step in improving relations with Australia.
National
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French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly “close” to confirming a visit to Australia, one year after his submarines quarrel with then prime minister Scott Morrison.
The leaders’ war of words came after Mr Morrison blindsided his counterpart by scrapping a $90bn submarine contract Australia had with France.
However, the French government has appeared to change its tune and is planning for Mr Macron to come Down Under after November’s G20 summit in Bali.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is also scheduled to attend the conference.
“Discussion on the French VVIP visit has been going for a while. It’s getting close to formally confirmed,” a figure involved with the trip’s planning told the ABC.
It would come a little more than a year after Mr Morrison ditched the French deal in favour of an agreement with the UK and US that would secure nuclear boats.
At the time, Mr Macron slammed the backflip as being detrimental to the two countries’ relationship.
“The AUKUS deal was very bad news for France – but not just for France – because I think it’s a very bad news for credibility of Australia and a very bad news for the trust that great partners can have with the Australians,” he said.
“I think this is detrimental to the reputation of your country and your prime minister.”
Mr Albanese visited France in July, two months after taking the top job.
“My presence here represents a new start for our countries’ relationship,” Mr Albanese said after arriving at the Elysee Palace.
“Australia’s relationship with France matters. Trust, respect and honesty matter. This is how I will approach my relations.”
Mr Macron previously visited Australia in 2018, only the second sitting French president to do so.
Originally published as French President Emmanuel Macron ‘close to confirming’ Australia trip after submarines saga
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