LONDON — French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday called for renewed Franco-British unity during a state visit to the UK, saying France and Britain must “save Europe” by standing firm for democracy, international law, and security in an increasingly unstable world.

Macron used a speech to both houses of the UK Parliament to urge Britain to remain closely aligned with its European neighbors, despite its departure from the European Union. He stressed the urgency of reducing dependence on both the U.S. and China, particularly in defense and economic matters.

“The United Kingdom cannot stay on the sidelines,” Macron said. “We will save Europe by our example and our solidarity.”

A Symbolic Visit

Macron’s three-day state visit — the first by an EU leader since Brexit — was at the invitation of King Charles III. It marked a diplomatic reset following years of post-Brexit tension, and included high-level talks as well as royal ceremony.

Macron and his wife, Brigitte, were received at RAF Northolt by Prince William and Princess Catherine, then met with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. There, they enjoyed a lavish banquet alongside celebrities like Mick Jagger and Elton John, featuring dishes such as chicken with asparagus and a gin cocktail named L’entente.

Despite the ceremonial pomp, Macron’s message was serious: that European values are under attack and that France and the UK must respond together.

A Shared Agenda on Migration, Ukraine

On Wednesday, Macron met with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss migration, defense cooperation, and energy investment — including a new French stake in the UK’s nuclear sector.

One of the thorniest issues was migrant crossings in the English Channel. Over 20,000 migrants have made the journey in 2025 so far — up 50% from the same period last year. Talks included ideas for joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and a possible “one-in, one-out” migrant deal between the two countries.

“France and the UK have a shared responsibility to address irregular migration with humanity, solidarity and fairness,” Macron said.

Ukraine and Global Stability

Macron and Starmer also reaffirmed support for Ukraine, despite U.S. hesitations under President Donald Trump. Both leaders back a “coalition of the willing” to provide peacekeeping forces and security guarantees when a ceasefire eventually takes hold.

“Europeans will never abandon Ukraine – never,” Macron said.

The two are set to join an international videoconference Thursday to continue planning efforts for a future European-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine.

A Cultural Gift with Historical Weight

Macron also announced a historic cultural gesture: France will loan the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK — the first time it will leave France in over 900 years. The tapestry, which depicts the 1066 Norman conquest of England, will go on display at the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027.

For author: Staff Writer
Courtesy of: Forbes
Source: HuffPost