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King Charles III hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, marking the start of a three-day state visit to the UK. The event, attended by high-profile guests including Sir Mick Jagger, Sir Elton John, and Dame Kristin Scott-Thomas, underscored the deep cultural and political ties between the two nations.
In his speech, delivered in both English and French, King Charles highlighted the strengthening relationship since his 2023 royal tour of France, stating that the UK and France "have stood ever closer." He emphasized their shared role in addressing global challenges, including "irregular migration across the English Channel," terrorism, cyberattacks, and climate change. The King also celebrated cultural connections, referencing French painter Monet, singer Jane Birkin, footballer Thierry Henry, and even Asterix, while noting the symbolic serving of English sparkling wine made by a French champagne house.
President Macron echoed the sentiment, expressing confidence in the Franco-British partnership. He announced the historic loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, describing it as a "real bit of history" returning after 900 years. Macron stressed the need for vigilance and collaboration, raising a toast to "Franco-British friendship."
The banquet, held in Windsor Castle due to Buckingham Palace renovations, featured a menu by chef Raymond Blanc, including a cocktail named “l’entente,” summer vegetables, Welsh chicken, and an iced blackcurrant sponge. The guestlist also included the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and TV personality Fred Sirieix.
Earlier, Macron addressed Parliament, urging cooperation on illegal migration with "humanity, solidarity, and firmness." He and Starmer laid wreaths at the statue of Charles de Gaulle in London, ahead of discussions on small boat Channel crossings. The visit, blending ceremony and diplomacy, highlights the vital alliance between the UK and France in an unstable global landscape.
