King Charles and Macron unite in first state visit by an EU leader since Brexit.
King Charles and Macron Unite to Tackle Borderless Threats and Migration Crisis
What happened
King Charles III delivered a powerful speech during a state banquet at Windsor Castle, hosting French President Emmanuel Macron for the first full state visit by an EU leader since Brexit. The King emphasised that the UK and France face “a multitude of complex threats… these challenges know no borders”. He highlighted shared concerns across defence, AI, migration, and climate change ahead of an Anglo-French summit attended by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Central to the visit was progress on small-boat migration, France preparing to allow police to intercept boats up to 300 m offshore under a proposed “one-in, one‑out” returns protocol.
Why it matters
This visit signals a renewed entente cordiale and deeper strategic alignment between the UK and France post‑Brexit. With Channel migrant crossings surging almost 50% year-on-year, newfound cooperation on migration patrols shows pragmatic problem-solving. Simultaneously, both nations are united in supporting Ukraine through plans for a European “reassurance force” amid an uncertain U.S. commitment. The combined diplomatic, defence, and climate messaging indicates a concerted response to modern global threats.
Reaction
Political analysts and commentators widely welcomed the visit. Sky News and other outlets praised King Charles’s framing of borderless challenges and highlighted the symbolic reset in UK‑EU relations. The Times noted the visit’s dual role: both diplomatic pageantry and serious policy coordination on immigration and European security.
What next
Details of the migration agreement, allowing France to intercept small boats, are expected to emerge later this week, contingent on maritime legal clearance. On defence, ministers plan a joint videoconference to launch the Ukraine “reassurance force”. The newfound diplomatic momentum aims to solidify cooperation further, with observers watching for tangible outcomes on migration control, climate initiatives, and defence strategy.