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Historic State Visit Commences
French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron have embarked on a significant three-day state visit to the United Kingdom - the first French state visit in nearly two decades. The visit signals warming relations between the historic neighbors amid shifting global alliances and European security concerns.
Royal Welcome at Windsor
The presidential couple received a ceremonial welcome at a London airbase by Prince William and Princess Kate before proceeding to Windsor Castle. King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted the Macrons for lunch following a carriage procession through the castle grounds. The afternoon included viewing French artifacts from the Royal Collection.
Parliamentary Address
At Westminster Abbey, President Macron addressed both Houses of Parliament - an honor previously granted only to dignitaries like Barack Obama and Angela Merkel. Macron opened with humor: "We love the monarchy, especially when it's not our own," before acknowledging shared wartime sacrifices. "The French will never forget the sacrifices made by the British people to defend Europe and the world."
Contemporary Challenges
Macron emphasized the Ukraine conflict, warning: "Every advance by Putin's Russia in Ukraine increases the threat to us all." His pledge that "Europe will never abandon Ukraine" received enthusiastic applause. On Gaza, he advocated for Palestinian statehood as essential for lasting peace.
Migration and Cooperation
The President addressed the sensitive issue of Channel crossings, noting over 21,000 attempts occurred in the past six months. Macron stressed Franco-British shared responsibility, advocating for cooperation with transit and origin countries. This topic will feature prominently in his upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Cultural Exchange
A major cultural agreement will see the Bayeux Tapestry - depicting the 1066 Norman conquest of England - loaned to the British Museum for nearly a year starting 2026. In exchange, significant British archaeological finds and the Lewis Chessmen will travel to French museums.
Political Significance
Correspondent analysis highlights the visit's strategic dimensions: migration policy discussions aim for a returns agreement with France, while military cooperation focuses on supporting Ukraine through the newly established European "coalition of the willing." Macron subtly pressured Starmer on Palestinian state recognition, an issue where UK and French positions diverge.
