French Reactions towards the Establishment of AUKUS

Abstract

In this study, we want to assess France's reaction to the establishment of AUKUS and its implications for French diplomacy around the Asia-Pacific area. Australia said in September 2021 that it would join the AUKUS armed union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and is seen as a catalyst for a strategic realignment of global powers in the region. France felt forgotten in the formation of AUKUS. France has problems in maintaining its presence and defence interests around the Asia-Pacific area. The study is qualitative in nature. The study's analysis focused on geopolitical, geoeconomic, and geostrategic variables. This research applies Stephen Walt's Balance of Threat theory, which holds that a nation's security is formed not just by the need to preserve a balance of power, but also by perceived dangers, which are mitigated by international cooperation. This study uncovers a complex interaction of security and geopolitical dynamics around the Asia-Pacific area after the establishment of AUKUS. AUKUS has far-reaching consequences outside France, causing conflicts and changes that might have a significant influence on regional security and stability. According to the research, France has taken strategic steps to address changing security dynamics in the Asia-Pacific area.