London, United Kingdom – French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived in the United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, commencing a highly anticipated three-day state visit aimed at revitalizing Franco-British relations in the post-Brexit era. The visit marks a significant moment, being the first state visit by a French President since 2008 and the first by a leader from a European Union member state since the UK’s departure from the bloc.
The presidential couple’s journey began with their arrival at RAF Northolt in west London, where they were officially greeted by Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales. This initial reception underscored the importance placed on the visit at the highest levels of the British state.
Royal Welcome at Windsor
Following their arrival in London, President Macron and Ms. Macron travelled to Windsor Castle, the historic royal residence. There, they were afforded a formal welcome ceremony hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The ceremonial aspects of the welcome included a traditional carriage procession and a full guard of honour, providing a visual display of diplomatic formality and historical ties between the two nations.
Packed Diplomatic Schedule in London
The first day of the state visit outlined a packed agenda, reflecting the breadth and depth of the issues facing both countries and the wider international community. Later on Tuesday, President Macron was scheduled to travel to London to address the UK Parliament, a signal honour reserved for the closest allies and heads of state. His address is expected to touch upon the shared values and future cooperation between France and the United Kingdom.
Following his parliamentary address, President Macron is slated to hold substantial meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London. These talks form the core of the political discussions during the visit, providing an opportunity for direct engagement on key bilateral and global challenges.
Key Bilateral and Global Discussions
The discussions between President Macron and Prime Minister Starmer are expected to cover a wide array of critical topics. A central issue on the agenda is likely to be joint efforts to prevent illegal migration across the English Channel, a persistent and politically sensitive challenge for both governments. Finding common ground and enhancing operational cooperation on this front is seen as paramount.
Support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression is also a high-priority topic. Both France and the UK have been staunch supporters of Kyiv, providing significant military, financial, and humanitarian aid. The leaders are anticipated to coordinate future strategy and potential increases in support.
Defence spending is another key area for discussion, likely focusing on NATO commitments, European security, and potential bilateral defence projects. As two of Europe’s leading military powers, their coordination is crucial for regional stability.
The talks will extend to economic and technological cooperation, including collaboration in nuclear energy, space exploration, innovation, and artificial intelligence. These areas represent opportunities for shared investment and research, crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the global economy. Trade relations in the context of the post-Brexit framework will also feature in the discussions, with both sides seeking to optimize economic ties.
Revitalizing Post-Brexit Ties
Overall, the state visit is being viewed as a significant step in revitalizing Franco-British relations following the strains imposed by Brexit. While cooperation continued in many areas, the UK’s departure from the EU necessitated a recalibration of the relationship. This visit, with its high-level ceremonial and political components, is intended to signal a renewed commitment to partnership between the two neighbouring nations.
The visit’s programme also includes cultural engagements and a state banquet at Windsor Castle, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. These events provide further opportunities for diplomatic interaction and underscore the enduring cultural and historical links between France and the United Kingdom.
The outcome of the discussions on migration, Ukraine, defence, and economic cooperation will be closely watched as indicators of the potential for a deeper and more effective partnership between Paris and London in the years ahead.
