WINDSOR, ENGLAND – French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron commenced a highly anticipated three-day state visit to the United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, signaling a significant moment for Anglo-French relations post-Brexit. Hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the visit marks the first by a French president since 2008 and the first by an EU head of state since the UK’s departure from the European Union in 2020, underscoring a mutual desire to enhance ties.
The visit began with a ceremonial welcome at RAF Northolt outside London, where the French presidential couple were greeted by Prince William and Princess Kate (Catherine Middleton), 43. The Duchess of Cambridge’s arrival drew particular attention, marking her first public appearance in Christian Dior for the occasion. She wore a pale pink 30 Montaigne Rose Des Vents Bar Jacket from the 2024 collection, a design by Maria Grazia Chiuri. The ensemble was complemented by a matching hat crafted by British milliner Jess Collett, Princess Diana’s iconic Collingwood pearl drop earrings, and a three-strand pearl necklace from Queen Elizabeth II’s esteemed collection. Images of Princess Kate’s striking attire quickly circulated online, going viral shortly after her appearance.
Formal Welcome at Windsor Castle
The formal welcome ceremony took place at Windsor Castle, where King Charles III and Queen Camilla officially received President and Madame Macron. Following the reception, the royal and presidential couples traveled together in a historic 1902 State Landau carriage through Windsor, a display of traditional pageantry that drew crowds. At the castle grounds, they reviewed a military guard of honor, a key element of state visit protocol.
Throughout their visit, the Macrons are set to reside at Windsor Castle, an arrangement highlighting the significance of their stay and the close ties being emphasized.
Substance of Discussions
Beyond the ceremonial aspects, the visit is packed with substantive political and strategic discussions. High on the agenda are key areas of mutual interest and concern, including security and defense cooperation, the future of nuclear energy, collaboration in space exploration, fostering innovation, and navigating the complex landscape of artificial intelligence.
Migration, particularly the sensitive issue of Channel crossings, is expected to be a significant point of discussion, reflecting ongoing bilateral challenges. Cultural exchanges and collaboration, aid to Ukraine in the face of ongoing conflict, and bolstering defense spending are also slated as critical topics for dialogue between the two nations’ leaders.
Key Engagements and State Banquet
The schedule for President Macron includes significant engagements aimed at reinforcing the UK-France relationship on multiple fronts. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, President Macron is scheduled to address the UK Parliament, a rare honor extended to visiting heads of state and a platform to articulate France’s perspective on bilateral and international affairs to British lawmakers.
Earlier in the visit, on Tuesday, President Macron is also set to hold a summit-level meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This high-level political engagement provides an opportunity for detailed policy discussions and strategic alignment between the heads of government.
The first day’s official events are scheduled to conclude with a lavish state banquet held at Windsor Castle, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The banquet is a traditional highlight of state visits, offering a platform for formal toasts and diplomatic networking amidst regal surroundings.
Resetting Relations
The state visit, set against the backdrop of post-Brexit adjustments and evolving global challenges, is viewed by both London and Paris as a crucial opportunity to reset and deepen cooperation. The blend of royal pageantry and high-level political dialogue underscores the enduring importance of the UK-France relationship, aiming to move beyond recent strains and forge stronger bonds for the future on critical strategic, economic, and social issues.
