French President Emmanuel Macron hosted US President Joe Biden as part of a state visit designed to showcase the two countries’ partnership on global security issues and ease tensions in trade relations. Biden said that France was the “first friend” of the United States at the time of its founding and has continued to be one of the closest allies for more than two centuries.
Before this visit, on June 6, Biden and Macron took part in ceremonies dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy, and the next day they met separately in Paris with Volodymyr Zelensky. Both leaders used the meetings to reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight against the Russian invasion.
The state visit began with a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, including the laying of a wreath at the French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a military parade on the Champs-Élysées. Both leaders held official meetings and made public statements at the Elysée Palace. Later, a state dinner was held at the palace for Biden and his wife, Jill.
Biden and Macron put the war in Ukraine at the top of their agenda during the visit, but it was the strength of the two countries’ long-standing alliance, cemented in Normandy 80 years ago, that took center stage over the weekend.
Calling himself a student of French history, Biden said the visit was a “great honor” and noted that America’s ties to France date back to the American Revolutionary War.
“France was our first friend. She remains one of our best friends.”, – said Biden.
Macron praised Biden for bringing “the clarity and loyalty of a partner who loves and respects Europeans.” In a joint statement, the presidents confirmed their commitment to “a united, free and peaceful Europe”.
Despite disagreements over sending allies to Ukraine, Macron said:
“I think we agree on this war in Ukraine.”
He softened his previous stance, with which he criticized the US for its lack of commitment to Europe, praising Biden’s leadership and thanking him.
Many saw it as a subtle criticism of former President Donald Trump, whose “America First” foreign policy has worried European leaders. Macron hosted Trump during Bastille Day celebrations in 2017 and the French president made a state visit to Washington in 2018, after which their relationship soured.
Macron expressed hope that next week in Italy the leaders of the “Big Seven” countries will agree to create a “solidarity fund” for Ukraine in the amount of 50 billion dollars, which will be provided at the expense of Russian assets that have come under sanctions.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also made a statement in support of Kyiv on Saturday, Radio Svoboda reports. He wrote on the X social network that Ukraine will not allow itself to be forced to surrender.
“Putin must finally admit this. There can only be a just peace for Ukraine. We are working tirelessly for this just peace.”, – emphasized the chancellor.
Scholz also mentioned the upcoming conference on Ukraine in Switzerland, where it is planned to discuss the exchange of prisoners, the repatriation of Ukrainian children, as well as nuclear and food security.
In addition, the leaders of the US and France on Saturday also welcomed the rescue by Israeli forces of four hostages taken by Hamas.
“We will not stop working until all the hostages return home and a ceasefire is reached.” – said Biden.
At the same time, Macron called on the Israeli government to make more efforts to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He said he supports Biden’s proposal for a cease-fire that would allow more humanitarian aid to the area and the release of more hostages. The US said it was awaiting an official response from Hamas.
