King Charles Delivers Groundbreaking Speech on Crucial UK-France Ties at French Senate
King Charles III delivers historic speech at French senate, emphasizing the unbreakable and vital UK-France relationship, which he believes is stronger than ever
King Charles III made history on Thursday by delivering a speech from the senate chamber in France. He commended the "essential bond" between the UK and its neighboring country, emphasizing its unwavering strength. Accompanied by Queen Camilla, the royal couple is currently on a three-day state visit to France, exploring both Paris and Bordeaux. The visit is slated to conclude on Friday.
The 74-year-old monarch received a warm reception as he entered the chamber, with parliamentarians giving him a standing ovation. In contrast to his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who delivered her speech from the nearby Salle des Conferences during her 2004 visit, Charles proclaimed his commitment to enhancing the relationship between the UK and France. He expressed his determination to capitalize on the boundless potential that lies before us when we work together.
On the 231st anniversary of France abolishing its monarchy and establishing a republic, the King expressed his gratitude to the presidents of the two houses of France's parliament for the invitation to speak. He emphasized the importance of addressing the climate crisis and strongly condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
On September 20, 2023, Britain's King Charles III and his wife Queen Camilla commenced their three-day state visit to France. During their visit, the King had a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris. The photograph captures the moment when the two leaders greeted each other warmly, emphasizing the diplomatic significance of the occasion.
Ludovic Marin/Pool/AFP/Getty Images
Macron pulls out all the stops for King Charles III's rescheduled state visit to France
Charles addressed French lawmakers at the Palais du Luxembourg, emphasizing the historical alliance between their countries and the ongoing threat of unprovoked aggression in Europe. He expressed the continued significance of their alliance and resolve, standing in firm solidarity with the Ukrainian people. Charles reaffirmed their unwavering determination for Ukraine's triumph and the preservation of cherished freedoms.
He continued, "These recent horrifying events have once again shown us just how delicate the things we cherish are. As we unite against military aggression, we must also work together to safeguard the world from our greatest existential threat: global warming, climate change, and the devastating destruction of nature."
Charles skillfully alternated between French and English during his speech, amusing the audience with his witty remark about avoiding "low blows" and his well wishes for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, hosted by France. Laughter resounded throughout the room.
Earlier, he received a warm welcome at the Palais du Luxembourg from the presidents of the senate and the national assembly. He then had the opportunity to meet with representatives from both houses of the French parliament and concluded his visit by signing the visitors book in the Salle des Conferences. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla was attending the launch of a new Franco-British literary prize at the Bibliotheque Nationale de France, alongside Brigitte Macron, the wife of the French president.
After their anticipated reunion, the royal couple will engage with prominent athletes at an event that emphasizes the benefits of sports for youth.
On Wednesday, the initial day of the journey emphasized symbolism and grandeur. It commenced with a formal ceremonial welcome at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, followed by a procession down the renowned Champs-Elysees and concluded with discussions at the presidential palace.
Later, Macron shared a video on
. In the footage, the two leaders were seen strolling between the Elysee palace and the nearby UK ambassadors residence on X. During this walk, they exchanged greetings with a joyful crowd of supporters who were lined up along the streets, with chants of "vive le Roi" echoing in the air.
Charles and Camilla were the esteemed guests at a lavish state banquet held at the Palace of Versailles, situated on the outskirts of the capital. The event boasted a star-studded attendance, including actors Hugh Grant, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and Emma Mackey, as well as legendary Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger and former French football manager Arsene Wenger. The black-tie affair exuded glamour and elegance.
Up to 180 guests were treated to a delightful dining experience in the majestic Hall of Mirrors, located in the historical royal abode constructed under the reign of French monarch Louis XIV. The menu showcased culinary treasures, such as delectable blue lobster and crab cakes, alongside succulent Bresse chicken expertly marinated in champagne, accompanied by a luscious cep mushroom gratin.
Queen Camilla and King Charles III are welcomed by French President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron to a state dinner in Versailles on September 20, 2023.
Christian Liewig/Corbis/Getty Images
Britain's King Charles with the French first lady Brigitte Macron at the Palace of Versailles, west of Paris, on Wednesday.
The rescheduled royal visit, happening at the behest of the British government and by invitation of the French, is regarded as a diplomatic effort by the UK to strengthen the Anglo-French relationship using soft power.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak traveled to Paris earlier this year to participate in a bilateral summit aimed at repairing the strained relations between the two countries following Brexit. Join CNNs Royal News to receive a weekly update on the royal family, including their public activities and insider information on palace happenings.
