King Charles III Stresses UK-France Unity and Support for Ukraine in French Parliament
Today, on the second day of his state visit to France, King Charles III of the United Kingdom addressed the French Parliament, as reported by France24.
He emphasized the political, historical, and cultural ties between the two nations, as well as the common challenges faced by France and the United Kingdom. According to him, their shared determination and alliance are "more important than ever" in the context of the war in Ukraine and the protection of the world from environmental threats.
King Charles delivered his speech in French, switching to English only for brief segments, which earned him an applause lasting nearly two minutes.
His focus was on the message of unity between France and the United Kingdom, concluding with a personal commitment to strengthen what he called "irreplaceable" relations between the two countries during his reign.
"During the time granted to me as king, I promise to do everything possible to strengthen the irreplaceable relations between the United Kingdom and France," he stated.
King Charles proposed that France and Britain unite to address exceptional situations related to climate and biodiversity using a new version of the 1904 Entente Cordiale pact, which cemented the friendship between Paris and London.
He also mentioned the late Queen Elizabeth II, who herself was a popular figure in France and addressed the Senate in 2004.
"In the rich and intricate tapestry of relations between France and the United Kingdom, the golden thread of my mother will shine eternally brightly. May it inspire us all to continue weaving the ties between our two countries—with determination, hope, and love," the monarch added.
The British royal couple, King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, arrived in France on Wednesday for their much-anticipated three-day state visit. They landed in Paris, where they were welcomed by Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron.
Originally scheduled for March 26-29, the visit of Charles and Camilla was postponed on March 24 due to pension reform strikes that were ongoing at the time.