King Charles III emphasized the importance of the UK’s partnership with France in addressing a multitude of complex threats during a state banquet in honor of French President Emmanuel Macron. The King stressed that both nations must stand together in the face of these threats, which emanate from multiple directions and know no borders. “Our two countries face a multitude of complex threats, emanating from multiple directions. As friends and as allies, we face them together,” King Charles said.
The King highlighted the shared values and determination between the two nations, stating, “Our two nations share not only values, but also the tireless determination to act on them in the world.” He emphasized the need for the UK and France to work together on issues such as defense, artificial intelligence, and climate change. The monarch also reflected on the 1,000 years of shared history and culture between the two peoples, saying, “For centuries our citizens have admired each other, amused each other, and imitated each other”.
President Macron’s three-day state visit to the UK marks the first state visit by an EU leader since Brexit. The visit aims to reinforce links between the two countries in trade, diplomacy, and defense, particularly in light of uncertainty surrounding the US stance on issues like military backing for Ukraine. A UK-France summit at Downing Street, hosted by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, will discuss ways to stop illegal migration on small boats across the Channel.
The state visit began with ceremonial spectacles, including a carriage procession through Windsor and a royal salute and military parade at Windsor Castle. Prince William and Catherine greeted President Macron and his wife Brigitte upon their arrival at RAF Northolt, while King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed them at Windsor. During their stay, the French president and his wife will visit the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II and see a horse given to her by Macron to mark her Platinum Jubilee in 2022.
The UK government has expressed its desire to “re-set” post-Brexit relations with European neighbors, and Macron’s visit serves as a public endorsement of the longstanding alliance between the UK and France. The visit also highlights advances in science, with examples of artificial intelligence and innovative technology being showcased to French visitors at Imperial College London.
King Charles and Queen Camilla had previously carried out a state visit to France in 2023, where the King received a standing ovation for his speech to the French Senate. During the visit, he delivered a strongly worded message of support for Ukraine after Russia’s invasion and highlighted the existential challenge of climate change.