King Charles Hosts Macron for Historic UK-EU State Visit

King Charles III is hosting French President Emmanuel Macron for a historic three-day state visit, the first by a European Union leader since Brexit, aimed at renewing and strengthening UK-France relations. The visit includes grand ceremonies at Windsor Castle, such as a carriage procession, military parade, and a state banquet, alongside high-level discussions on issues like people-smuggling, economic cooperation, joint defense initiatives for Ukraine, and migration policies. Both leaders, who share a close personal rapport, are expected to emphasize the importance of their countries' shared history, values, and continued partnership in addressing current global challenges, including security and environmental concerns. The visit also features Macron addressing the UK Parliament and a UK-France summit co-chaired by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Macron, highlighting a broader effort to reset post-Brexit relations between the UK and the EU. The event marks a symbolic and strategic moment, with Windsor Castle serving as the venue while Buckingham Palace undergoes renovations and setting a precedent for future state visits, including that of US President Donald Trump. King Charles, fluent in French and deeply appreciative of French culture, continues a legacy of close UK-France ties and personal diplomacy established during his recent visit to France in 2023.