Support for Ukraine
France marked Armistice Day with a sequence of ceremonies honoring French soldiers who died in the fighting of World War I. The national observance drew a notable presence, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joining President Emmanuel Macron and French Prime Minister Michel Barnier at the Arc de Triomphe to pay tribute. Starmer was described as the first British prime minister since Winston Churchill in 1944 to participate in the ceremony. Earlier, Macron and Starmer convened to strengthen bilateral ties, emphasizing security and defense at a moment of uncertainty following Donald Trump’s electoral victory. — Élysée.
The day also included a tribute to a shared history as Paris and London marked the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale, signed on 8 April 1904, which resolved long-standing colonial disputes between former adversaries. “I am honored to be in Paris to join President Macron in paying tribute to the fallen of World War I who sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy today”, Starmer stated. — Élysée.
For some observers, Starmer’s presence signaled a possible opening in the United Kingdom’s relationship with the European continent, suggesting a move away from Brexit-era tensions toward renewed cooperation. “The Franco-British friendship runs deep and has endured tests. It will prove valuable as we face the challenges ahead,” commented French Prime Minister Barnier on his social media feed. — Élysée.
Apoyo a Ucrania
Before the day’s commemorations began, Starmer and Macron met at the Élysée Palace to discuss important international topics, including how to advance national interests in security and defense, as reported by the Élysée. — Élysée.
In addition to exploring fresh bilateral avenues, the two leaders used the encounter to reaffirm their commitment to close coordination and resolve in backing Ukraine for as long as necessary. This stance comes as the United States’ military aid for Ukraine is under scrutiny with the prospect of Trump’s return to the White House. — Élysée.
Together they also reviewed the situation in the Middle East, underscoring a shared willingness to sustain efforts with regional and international partners aimed at restoring peace and stability in the area. — Élysée.
On migration, the two countries reiterated their years-long cooperation to disrupt human trafficking networks operating in the English Channel. — Élysée.
Peace Forum
After their talks, the leaders paid tribute to war veterans along the Champs-Élysées and greeted the French and British troops stationed along the avenue. — Élysée.
This anniversary coincides with the Peace Forum taking place in Paris, an event launched by Macron that gathers leading international figures to debate ongoing conflicts, their consequences, and the paths toward peace. — Élysée.
The day is set to close with a dinner at the Élysée Palace where Macron will host partners and senior representatives of the Paris Peace Forum to continue discussions about the importance of reinvigorating multilateralism to prevent global fragmentation amid current crises. — Élysée.
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