King Charles hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, marking a symbolic moment in strengthening UK-France relations. The event, attended by over 160 guests including cultural icons like Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Elton John, celebrated the shared history and future cooperation between the two countries. The three-day state visit is the first by a French president since 2008 and the first by a European Union leader since Brexit.
The banquet, set in the grand surroundings of St George’s Hall, reflected a carefully curated blend of British and French elements. Guests were served English sparkling wine produced by a French champagne house and a cocktail called “l’entente,” a symbolic nod to unity, combining British gin and French pastis. The evening’s menu featured Rhug Estate chicken with Norfolk asparagus and a dessert of blackcurrant sponge and elderflower jelly. The King humorously noted the symbolic “rapprochement” of the two nations through the fusion of culinary elements.
King Charles addressed the gathering in both French and English, reflecting on the deep historical, political, and cultural bonds between the UK and France. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties in an increasingly unstable world, highlighting shared efforts to address threats such as terrorism, organized crime, cyberattacks, and illegal migration across the Channel. His speech also referenced cultural icons and moments that bind the two nations, including the works of Monet and the football legacy of Thierry Henry.
President Macron, who arrived in Windsor with First Lady Brigitte Macron in a ceremonial carriage procession, also spoke about the necessity of reinforcing European security and reducing dependence on powers such as China and the US. Addressing members of both Houses of Parliament earlier in the day, he urged deeper cooperation between the UK, France, and Europe, advocating for an “open world” with reduced external reliance.
A poignant moment in Macron’s remarks involved the Bayeux Tapestry, which is set to be displayed in the UK next year for the first time in over 900 years. He noted that the missing final panels of the tapestry symbolize that the story of Franco-British history remains unfinished—and must be written together.
The visit also marked a public appearance by the Princess of Wales, who joined all the state events as she gradually returns to public life after undergoing chemotherapy. Her presence was noted as a significant moment for the Royal Family.
The visit is more than ceremonial; it includes a summit at Downing Street with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Key topics include the Ukraine conflict, illegal migration, and the Middle East crisis. Macron emphasized unity in support for Ukraine and called for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, underlining the urgency of recognizing a Palestinian state as a path to lasting peace.
Macron is also scheduled to visit the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II and a horse he had gifted her during her Platinum Jubilee, adding a personal and respectful touch to the itinerary.
This state visit signals a renewed commitment to repairing and deepening the Franco-British relationship in a post-Brexit era, with a strong emphasis on diplomacy, trade, and joint global responsibility.
