We are delighted to present today’s article, dedicated to the recent state visit of King Charles III to France. This visit, marked by solemnity and pomp, marked an important moment in Franco-British relations, symbolizing the relaunch of friendship between the two countries after the turbulence of Brexit.
King Charles III, accompanied by his wife Queen Camilla, arrived in France aboard the royal plane, an Airbus A321 in the colors of the Union Jack. They were warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne on the red carpet at Orly airport. This visit was initially planned for last March, but had to be canceled at the last minute due to demonstrations against pension reform. Six months later, the tension has subsided and it is time to celebrate the Entente Cordiale between France and the United Kingdom.
King Charles III and President Emmanuel Macron then walked along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, escorted by the Republican Guard, before joining the Élysée Palace for a bilateral meeting. During this meeting, they discussed various subjects such as biodiversity, climate, artificial intelligence, but also the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Sahel. President Macron warmly welcomed King Charles III, reminding him that the prince had already visited France several times as crown prince. “You came as a prince, you come back as a king,” declared the French president.
In addition to this bilateral meeting, the state visit was marked by a sumptuous state dinner held at the Palace of Versailles. This emblematic place was chosen in homage to the king’s mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who was also received there in 1957 and 1972. The guests present were able to enjoy a refined menu, composed of dishes such as lobster blue cheese or Bresse poultry, prepared by starred chefs. Guests included entertainment figures such as Hugh Grant, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Mick Jagger, as well as figures from the world of sport and culture.
The political aspect of the visit continued with a speech by King Charles III from the Senate gallery, a first for a British sovereign. He also participated in a round table on global warming with President Macron at the National Museum of Natural History. This environmental dimension is dear to the king, who wishes to commit to protecting the planet, one year after his accession to the throne.
This state visit by King Charles III to France was an opportunity to strengthen Franco-British ties and celebrate a new era of cooperation between the two countries. It also allowed the king to consolidate his image internationally and to highlight themes that are close to his heart.. We hope that this landmark meeting will pave the way for new collaborations and a lasting friendship between France and the United Kingdom.