France’s Ambassador to Oz Jean-Pierre Thebault hit us where it hurt as he left Canberra on Saturday night after he and France’s envoy to the US were recalled in protest following last week’s announcement of the new AUKUS security pact. “I’ve seen and learned how deep for an Australian it is when you commit to watch each other’s back. What makes me sad is that we thought we were mates and we were stabbed in the back,” Thebault said. Offt… Analysts say it’s not just about cancelling a $90 billion submarine contract with France’s Naval Group – it’s about the way France – an allied nation with a presence in the Pacific – was cut out of the picture. PM Morrison was unapologetic yesterday, saying “I don’t regret the decision to put Australia’s national interest first.” He’ll be able to get some in-person support this week from US President Joe Biden… Morrison takes off for New York and Washington DC today for talks with him and the other Quad leaders of India and Japan.