Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, and Brigitte Macron recently made a landmark state visit to the United Kingdom. This visit will be France’s first state visit to the UK for 17 years. The three-day visit began with an elaborate ceremonial welcome that exemplified the spirit of friendship and cooperation that both leaders hope to foster between the two countries.
On arrival at RAF Northolt, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron received an enthusiastic welcome from Prince William and Kate Middleton. While the tone was friendly, keeping it informal, Macron greeted Prince William with a handshake, holding the heir to the British throne’s hand vigorously while chatting him up. In a sign of European friendship, he gave an air kiss to Kate Middleton.
The ceremonial proceedings carried on through the day, with Macron later being whisked around Windsor in the State Landau with King Charles. Together, they reviewed the Guard of Honour. This traditional exhibit underscores the close military relationship on which the UK and France have long relied.
As part of the visit, Emmanuel Macron was able to see objects in the Royal Collection that are of historical importance to France. Among these treasures as a curious thing there was a traveling library where English poetry was housed. An exiled Napoleon had previously gifted it to his son, Napoleon François. This unique trove represents the deep cultural ties that have existed between our two countries for centuries.
Macron’s amazing chance to see a 1632 Second Folio of 36 Shakespeare plays. This special edition held margin notes penned by none other than King Charles I, giving an incredible historical touch to the visit. This occasion exemplified the deep artistic and literary legacy that both countries have in common.
Following the formal ceremonies, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron enjoyed a private lunch with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. This small meeting afforded the chance for individual and group conversations about shared goals, underscoring each country’s commitment to continued diplomatic relationships.
The day’s events bad with a Royal Salute of 41 guns from the historic towers of Windsor Castle and the Tower of London. This elaborate pageant served to underscore the importance of the state visit. Over 950 active personnel from the British Armed Forces were involved in the ceremonial. They were accompanied by 70 full horses, all emphasizing pomp military pageantry and tradition.
During their visit to Windsor, Macron and his wife toured an exhibition of Chinese art from the Royal Collection. As your highness mentioned, they much appreciated the cultural ties and cultural connections between their two nations. Through her ‘quiet luxury’ looks, Brigitte Macron wowed French and American onlookers alike with her fashion-maven prowess throughout the state visit.
Taken together, these moments represent a profound turn in the history of UK–France relations. Specifically, they point to a commitment to get things done collaboratively and a shared, long-standing history.
