King Charles III Strengthen UK-French Ties in Historic Speech from French Senate Chamber
Paris, France (CNN) – King Charles III of the United Kingdom made history on Thursday as he became the first British monarch to deliver a speech from France’s senate chamber. During his address, which received a standing ovation from parliamentarians, the King highlighted the “indispensable relationship” between the UK and France, stating that it is “as firm as it has ever been.”
Accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla, the 74-year-old monarch is currently on a three-day state trip to France, visiting both Paris and Bordeaux. The royal couple’s visit was initially scheduled for March but was delayed due to widespread protests over President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms.
King Charles III expressed his commitment to strengthening UK-French ties, emphasizing that “together, our potential is limitless.” He also took the opportunity to address important global issues, rebuking Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and urging further action to combat the climate crisis.
Fluently switching between French and English, the King captivated the audience with his wit, making jokes about “low blows” and wishing “may the best man win” in reference to France hosting the upcoming men’s Rugby World Cup.
In his speech, King Charles III affirmed that the United Kingdom will always be one of France’s closest allies and best friends. The visit reaffirmed the importance of the Anglo-French relationship and the mutual desire to strengthen ties between the two nations.
While the King delivered his speech at the Palais du Luxembourg, Queen Camilla was engaged in her own activities. She joined Brigitte Macron, the French president’s wife, at the Bibliotheque Nationale de France for the launch of the Prix de l’Entente Litteraire, a new Franco-British literary prize. Queen Camilla expressed her delight at promoting literacy, stating that books have the power to change lives and bring joy, comfort, and companionship.
Following their separate engagements, King Charles III and Queen Camilla reunited in Saint-Denis, a suburb of Paris, where they participated in a sports event aimed at highlighting the benefits of sport for young people. The royal couple then visited a flower market named after Queen Elizabeth II in central Paris before heading to Notre Dame cathedral, which is undergoing restoration following the devastating fire in 2019. Their day concluded with a reception on sustainability at the Natural History Museum.
The couple’s visit to France began with a symbolic and ceremonious welcome at the Arc de Triomphe, followed by a procession down the iconic Champs-Elysee and talks at the presidential palace. Macron shared a video on social media showing the King and Queen interacting with crowds of well-wishers, accompanied by shouts of “vive le Roi” (long live the King).
The highlight of the visit was an extravagant state banquet at the Palace of Versailles, where British and French celebrities, including Hugh Grant, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Emma Mackey, Mick Jagger, and Arsene Wenger, gathered to celebrate the occasion. The opulent event took place in the gilded Hall of Mirrors, and guests were treated to a luxurious menu featuring delicacies such as blue lobster and crab cakes.
The rescheduled royal trip, facilitated by the British government and at the invitation of the French, signifies a renewed effort to strengthen the Anglo-French relationship in the post-Brexit era. It follows UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s visit to Paris earlier this year, which aimed to mend strained relations between the two countries.
As King Charles III and Queen Camilla conclude their visit to France on Friday, their historic speeches and engagements leave a lasting impact on UK-French relations, showcasing the enduring friendship and alliance between the two nations.