King Charles and President Macron Strengthen UK-France Ties at State Banquet

In a significant display of international relations, King Charles III hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at a state banquet in Windsor Castle, emphasizing the need for the UK and France to forge an “ever closer” partnership amidst a landscape of “profound challenges.” The event, attended by the Royal Family and approximately 160 distinguished guests including cultural icons Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Elton John, underscored the enduring relationship between the two nations.

The state visit, the first by a French president since 2008 and the first by an EU political leader post-Brexit, commenced with a ceremonial carriage procession through Windsor. President Macron and his wife, Brigitte, were accompanied by the King and Queen, as well as the Prince and Princess of Wales, marking a formal and symbolic start to the three-day engagement.

During his address to members of Parliament and peers at the Houses of Parliament, President Macron called for a strategic shift, urging the UK, France, and broader Europe to reduce their “excessive dependence on China and the US.” He articulated a vision for an “open world” built on cooperation rather than dependency, highlighting the need for greater autonomy in global affairs.

King Charles, speaking eloquently in both French and English, elaborated on the deep-seated cultural, political, and historical connections shared by the two nations. He stressed the importance of collaboration in addressing transnational threats, including terrorism, organized crime, and cyberattacks, and mentioned joint efforts to manage irregular migration across the English Channel.

The King also injected a touch of humor, noting the symbolic “rapprochement” evident in the banquet’s menu, curated by renowned chef Raymond Blanc. He playfully remarked on the serving of English sparkling wine produced by a French champagne house, a notion that would have been “scarcely believable” to past generations. References to shared cultural figures, from Monet’s Parisian scenes to Thierry Henry’s football prowess in London, further enriched the narrative of shared heritage.

In his response, President Macron highlighted the historical bonds and expressed enthusiasm for the planned loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK. He described the tapestry, created over 900 years ago, as a “powerful symbol” of the ongoing Franco-British story, suggesting that its temporary relocation to the British Museum next year signifies that “the end is yet to be written – it is up to us to do it.”

The Princess of Wales, who recently spoke about her recovery from chemotherapy, made a notable appearance at the banquet, signaling a gradual return to public duties. Her presence at such high-profile events, following her absence from previous ceremonial dinners, was warmly received.

The state visit encompasses both ceremonial pageantry and substantive political discussions. A UK-France summit is scheduled at Downing Street, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to address critical issues such as curbing illegal migration and reinforcing support for Ukraine.

President Macron also addressed the international landscape, advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza “without any condition” and emphasizing that recognizing a Palestinian state is the “only path to peace.” He expressed confidence in achieving “tangible results” from joint efforts to combat illegal migration.

The menu for the evening featured a specially crafted cocktail named “l’entente,” a blend of British gin and French pastis, garnished with cornflowers and roses. The starter comprised tender summer vegetables, followed by a main course of Rhug Estate chicken with Norfolk asparagus. Dessert was an iced blackcurrant sponge with elderflower jelly, all complemented by a distinguished selection of English and French wines.

The visit aims to reinforce bilateral relations across diplomacy, defense, and trade, offering a message of strengthened alliance during a period of global uncertainty. The UK government views this state visit as a crucial step in “resetting” post-Brexit relations with its European neighbors.

President Macron is also set to visit the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor and view a horse gifted to her for her Platinum Jubilee, further connecting with the legacy of the late monarch.