Minister for Defence, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP today hosted Minister for the French Armed Forces Madame Florence Parly for the inaugural Australia – France Defence Ministerial meeting, which focused on shared security interests and challenges.
Minister Pyne said Australia and France discussed how both countries can cooperate to address issues of mutual concern.
"This visit is an important step in further developing the Australia-France defence relationship," Minister Pyne said.
"Both Australia and France share an interest in upholding the rules-based global order and are strong advocates for institutions and values that promote security, the rule of law and democratic principles.
"Today’s meeting was an excellent opportunity to exchange views on how Australia and France can build on the strong foundations of our defence relationship, to better address global and regional security challenges.
"We discussed opportunities to conduct cooperative maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific and strengthening our bilateral partnership in the South-West Pacific.
"During the meeting Minister Parly and I discussed the Future Submarine Program and worked on advancing the defence cooperation opportunities announced during President Macron’s visit to Australia in May this year."
