French President Emmanuel Macron began a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom on Tuesday, the first visit by an EU head of state since Brexit. The visit combines royal protocol and difficult political negotiations, with the focus on combating illegal migration across the English Channel.
The event also marks the first meeting between the two leaders since Donald Trump returned to power in the United States. Both leaders are facing domestic challenges: Macron and Starmer have both been criticised at home and faced political setbacks.
One of the key issues of the meeting was joint efforts to limit illegal crossings of the English Channel by migrants.
Among the initiatives being considered is a “one in, one out” agreement, which would see illegal migrants returned from Britain to France on condition that Britain accepts an equal number of processed asylum applications. At the same time, the two sides confirmed their intention to strengthen co-operation on the Ukrainian conflict.
Ukrainian issue
Macron and Starmer will visit a military base in north-west London to discuss further steps by the European coalition formed in March to support Ukraine. The visit will also include discussions on nuclear deterrence and the possible extension of France’s “nuclear umbrella” to new European countries.
No significant decisions on Ukraine or migration are expected due to the complex international situation.
However, even limited agreements will demonstrate the willingness of Europe’s two nuclear powers to move closer together after a long pause caused by Brexit and disagreements with the US administration.
During his visit, Macron will meet with King Charles III and attend an official banquet at Windsor Castle. After the ceremonial events, Macron and Starmer will hold talks on key issues, including the fight against criminal groups involved in transporting migrants across the English Channel.
For London, the French leader’s visit is a symbol of the restoration of relations with the European Union after the UK’s difficult exit from the bloc in 2020.
