King Charles III Defies Political Tensions with Cross-Channel Visit to France, Cementing Post-Brexit Alliance

King Charles III embarked on his first state visit to France as monarch, showcasing the enduring strength of the cross-Channel alliance despite political tensions caused by Brexit. Originally planned for March, the visit was postponed due to widespread rioting and strikes in France. The king and Queen Camilla were warmly welcomed at Paris Orly airport by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, and later greeted by President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at the Arc de Triomphe, where they laid wreaths in honor of the countries' war dead.

The royal couple then proceeded to the Elysee Palace for talks with Macron, traveling in a Citroen DS7 convertible, escorted by 136 horses of the Republican Guard along the Champs-Elysees. The Macrons will host a state banquet at Versailles, featuring a menu of delicacies prepared by acclaimed chef Anne-Sophie Pic, inspired by the tastes of Sun King Louis XIV. This visit not only serves to promote Charles' interests in the environment, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, but also solidifies relations between the UK and France following the challenges posed by Brexit.

The itinerary of the visit bears reminders of Queen Elizabeth II's past visits to France, highlighting the historical connections between the two countries. The visit comes at a time when the UK Prime Minister aims to reset relations with France, and French President Macron seeks to strengthen ties with the opposition leader in the UK.