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France seeking enhanced "strategic partnership" with Australia through huge defense contract

Xinhua, March 1, 2016 Adjust font size:

France plans to broaden its defense ties with Australia if it secures the nation's lucrative contract to build its next generation of submarines.

While touring an Adelaide shipyard on Tuesday, French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian revealed his government hoped to forge an enhanced relationship with Australia should its proposal beat out rival bids.

France is currently in direct competition with Japan and Germany to construct the fleet of underwater vessels, in what is presently the biggest defense contract up for grabs in the world.

"We want to contribute something to Australia to help it guarantee its own security by offering these high-tech submarines," Le Drian told reporters on Tuesday.

"It would form part of a truly strategic partnership with Australia, based here in Adelaide," he added.

Le Drian said French-built submarines, known for their long-range capabilities, would offer a strategic advantage over the rival bids.

He also said the potential collaboration could prove mutually beneficial for both countries, fostering the exchange of new-age, high-tech information that would "strengthen the industrial fabric" of Australia.

Last month, Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop travelled to Tokyo to discuss the contract with Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida.

Bishop said Japanese officials were also keen to strengthen its alliance with Australia through the bid.

Japan have been frequently cited as the front-runner to win the contract. However, reports in the Australian media suggest the demotion of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has helped France's pitch as Abbott heavily favored Japan's bid.

A competitive process is under way with the winner set to be announced this year. Endit