Macron Visits Australia: Macron and PM Turnbull discuss trade, defense

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02:17

Emmanuel Macron is on his first official visit to Australia as France's president. Macron and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull are tackling a range of topics over 3 days -- from promoting trade to furthering security and stability in the Pacific region. Greg Navarro reports from Sydney.

After touching down in Sydney Tuesday and a brief welcome from dignitaries, French President Emmanuel Macron was whisked off to a colourfully lit Opera House, and a toast.

"57 To the president and the people of the French Republic."

Macron's popularity outside of his country was evident - as the young leader paused for a picture - and underscored the purpose of his visit.

EMMANUEL MACRON FRENCH PRESIDENT "I therefore wanted - upon the prime minister's invitation - to come here in the first year of my mandate to show France's commitment to start a new chapter with you."

That new chapter includes boosting France's profile in the Pacific where it maintains several island territories and increasing security ties with Australia. The two countries signed agreements to enhance cyber security, and committed to fighting terrorism.

MALCOLM TURNBULL AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER "So let us vow to learn the lessons of war's destruction, to stand firm with our friends, to open our arms and our hearts to our neighbours, that is how we will build a safer world. Lest we forget."

GREG NAVARRO SYDNEY "The French president is accompanied by a delegation of defence and military contractors, hoping to build on a nearly $40 billion contract France won in 2016 to build a fleet of submarines for Australia."

The two leaders say the deal will serve as a framework for further collaboration. On the heels of Macron's visit to the US last month where he charmed President Donald Trump and criticised some US policies, the French president also challenged Australia to do more on climate change.

EMMANUEL MACRON FRENCH PRESIDENT "When I think about vulnerability, I want to speak obviously about climate, which is an absolute priority. Numerous states in the pacific are at direct risk of disappearing completely in only a few years if we do not take action."

Macron wraps up his Australian visit on Thursday. Greg Navarro, CGTN, Sydney.