Macron arrives in the UK for a state visit, emphasizing the need for backing on matters relating to the Israel-Palestine conflict | France-UK Relations Update

French President Emmanuel Macron, during his state visit to the UK, has urged British support for recognizing the state of Palestine and for assisting Ukraine. Addressing the British Parliament, Macron highlighted the need for France and the UK to collaborate on defense, immigration, climate, and trade, stressing that the alliance between their countries can significantly impact global challenges. He also called for an end to excessive dependencies on the US and China, advocating for economic de-risking. Macron’s visit, held at the invitation of King Charles III, included a royal welcome and a state banquet at Windsor Castle, where King Charles proposed an upgraded ‘entente amicale’ relationship. The visit has also seen agreements on nuclear investment and the loan of historical artifacts, reflecting strengthening bilateral ties. Despite disruptions caused by Brexit and ongoing issues regarding cross-Channel asylum seekers, cooperation was reaffirmed, including discussions on military support for Ukraine and addressing migration challenges.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/9/frances-macron-begins-uk-state-visit-calls-for-support-on-gaza-ukraine?traffic_source=rss