Macron Begins UK Visit with Bold Call: France and Britain Can ‘Save Europe’

Macron’s UK State Visit: France & Britain Unite to “Save Europe”

During a state visit to the UK, President Emmanuel Macron urged Britain to stay closely aligned with Europe despite Brexit, emphasizing that together, France and the UK can “save Europe” by defending democracy, international order, and the rule of law in a perilous world.

Invited by King Charles III, Macron addressed both Houses of Parliament in the Royal Gallery—an iconic stage for his message of renewed unity. He stated:

“The United Kingdom and France must once again show the world that our alliance can make all the difference… we will save Europe by our example and our solidarity.”

He added, “Security, competitiveness, and democracy—our continent’s core values—are interconnected and demand joint action.”

Royal Ceremonies & Diplomatic Depth
Macron and Brigitte Macron received a highly ceremonial welcome: greeted by Prince William and Catherine at RAF Northolt, received by King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, and escorted in a horse-drawn carriage through streets adorned with British and French flags.

A glittering banquet at Windsor Castle—attended by 160 guests, including Mick Jagger and Elton John—paid homage to the historic Entente Cordiale, complete with a signature gin cocktail named L’entente.

Talks on Ukraine, Migration & Energy
On Wednesday and Thursday, Macron will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer to focus on:

Channel migration: Joint strategies, including stepped-up French policing and a “one-in, one-out” migrant transfer mechanism.

Defense and economy: Coordination on Ukraine; EDF’s 12.5% stake in a new UK nuclear power plant.

Ukraine peacekeeping: Support for a European-led force to uphold a future ceasefire, despite limited U.S. involvement.

Migration remains a major concern—more than 37,000 Channel crossings were recorded in 2024, with 20,000+ already in 2025, prompting both nations to explore tight bilateral coordination.

Cultural Gesture
Macron announced the Bayeux Tapestry—historically linked to the Norman Conquest—will be loaned to the UK for the first time in over 900 years, on display at the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027.

A Renewed Alliance
Macron’s visit sends a powerful signal that despite Brexit, France and the UK remain eager to lead Europe together—through shared defense, political solidarity, and cultural cooperation.