London (TDI): French President Emmanuel Macron has called for British support to recognize the State of Palestine and help defend Ukraine as he has arrived in the UK for a three-day state visit.
Macron’s visit marks the first-ever state visit by a European leader since Britain’s exit from the European Union.
Macron promised European countries a strong commitment to Ukraine and that they will never “abandon Ukraine” in its war against Russia, and also demanded a ceasefire in Gaza. He urged the UK to work with France in recognizing the State of Palestine and called it the only and sole path to peace.
Hello, United Kingdom.
Deep gratitude to Their Majesties for such a gracious and memorable welcome.
Truly moving and heartfelt. pic.twitter.com/FmqwvyV9U8— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 8, 2025
“With Gaza in ruin and the West Bank being attacked on a daily basis, the perspective of a Palestinian state has never been put at risk as it is,” Macron said. “And this is why this solution of the two states and the recognition of the State of Palestine is… the only way to build peace and stability for all in the whole region.”
The French President, in his address to both houses of the British parliament, celebrated the closer ties of both countries and said that France and the UK should work together to end “excessive dependencies” on the United States and China.
He also expressed the need for both countries to work together to strengthen Europe through various sectors that include defense, immigration, trade, and climate.
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“The United Kingdom and France must once again show the world that our alliance can make all the difference,” Macron said.
He added, “The only way to overcome the challenges we have, the challenges of our times, will be to go together hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder.”
Later on Tuesday evening, King Charles hosted a dinner for Macrons at Windsor Castle, where many renowned politicians, diplomats, and celebrities were invited.
The UK and France marked the three-day visit with an announcement that French nuclear energy utility EDF would invest 1.1 billion pounds ($1.5bn) in a nuclear power project in eastern England.
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