Royalty
British Comedy with French Wine
Charles thanks Macron for President’s warm tributes to his late mother as the pair swap toasts at glittering state banquet: King and Queen Camilla are joined by 160 guests including Mick Jagger and Hugh Grant in the Palace of Versailles
The people of France
who are staunchly Anti-Monarchist simply adore King Charles III.
King Charles cheered President Emmanuel Macron and spoke about the UK’s and France’s ‘firm friendship’ as he and Queen Camilla joined French and British dignitaries and celebrities for a black tie gala at the Palace of Versailles tonight.
Their Majesties were guests of honour at a glittering state banquet in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles at the end of a whirlwind first day of their inaugural state visit to France.
High-profile figures invited to the dinner to mark their ‘contribution to UK-France relations’, including Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger and actor Hugh Grant, were among the 160 guests addressed by Charles and Mr Macron on Wednesday evening.
The King told the president: ‘Your generosity of spirit brings to mind how my family and I were so greatly moved by the tributes paid in France to my mother, the late Queen, whose funeral took place one year ago yesterday.
‘Mr. President, among the many profoundly moving gestures here, the flying of the Union flag at the Elysee was particularly poignant.
King Charles cheered President Emmanuel Macron and spoke about the UK’s and France ‘s ‘firm friendship’ as he and Queen Camilla joined French and British dignitaries and celebrities for a black tie gala at the Palace of Versailles tonight
Their Majesties were guests of honour at a glittering state banquet in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles at the end of a whirlwind first day of their inaugural state visit to France.
Brigitte Macron toast with Queen Camilla as President Emmanuel Macron looks on during a state banquet.
High-profile figures invited to the dinner to mark their ‘contribution to UK-France relations’, including Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger and actor Hugh Grant, were among the 160 guests addressed by Charles and Mr. Macron (pictured) on Wednesday evening.
The king and president toasted Champagne in the Hall of Mirrors in France
Macron and Charles looked very friendly as they attended the state dinner in France
Macron couldn’t resist bringing up Brexit as he raised his glass in a speech for continued relations between the UK and France
Charles thanked Mr and Mme Macron for honouring his late mother – whose funeral was one year ago today
The two appeared very close throughout the night and chatted and thanked one another
The pair clinked champagne glasses at the historic palace west of Paris
Guests enjoyed a grand dinner inside the palace to mark Charles and Camilla’s first day in France
Salut! Macron ensured his glass was empty as he cheered Charles and fellow dignitaries
The pair appeared to booster British-French relations at the State Banquet
The pair matched in very dapper suits as they cheersed one another
Charles clapped following Mr Macron’s speech where he praised a history between Britain and France
Cheeky Macron couldn’t resist a wink after giving his speech
Meanwhile, Brigitte and Camilla matched in navy dresses and sparkling accessorises
‘Your words, at that time, meant a great dealt to us too. You said that she had touched your hearts – and it was she who held France in the greatest affection, as, of course, did my grandmother Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
‘My parents’ first official visit together was to France in 1948, shortly after their wedding.
‘By all accounts, they made quite a splash, dancing till the early hours at the glamourous Chez Carrere in the Rue Pierre Charron, serenaded by Edith Piaf.
‘I suspect it may have left an indelible impression on me, even six months before I was born – La Vie En Rose is one of my favourite songs to this day.’
The King also said relations between the UK and France have not always been ‘straightforward’, but went on to stress the unity between the nations.
Charles also mentioned the importance of Britain working with France to tackle climate change.
He went on: ‘Mr. President, in all of this we can rely on our firm friendship, which is renewed and reinvigorated with each new generation.
‘I would like if you would allow me, to raise a toast to President and Madame Macron and to the French people, as well as to our entente cordiale – a sustainable alliance.
‘Whatever lies ahead, may it endure, faithful and constant, for centuries to come.’
President Emmanuel Macron added that France and Britain would rise up to the challenges of the modern world despite the tensions created by Brexit.
‘Despite Brexit… I know, Your Majesty, that we will continue to write part of the future of our continent together, to meet the challenges and to serve the causes we have in common,’ Macron said in a toast describing Charles’ visit as a ‘tribute to our past… and guarantee of the future.’
The King also said relations between the UK and France have not always been ‘straightforward’, but went on to stress the unity between the nations
Charles raised a toast to President and Madame Macron during the celebration in Versailles
Charles also mentioned the importance of Britain working with France to tackle climate change
Charles delivers a speech as French President Emmanuel Macron listens to during a state dinner in the Hall of Mirrors
President Emmanuel Macron added that France and Britain would rise up to the challenges of the modern world despite the tensions created by Brexit
Macron and King Charles toast during a state dinner in the Hall of Mirrors, in front of French, British, and EU flags
Macron listened intensely to King Charles during the speech in France
Charles and Brigitte clinked glasses after the speech to toast to the UK and France
Brigitte looked stunning as she tied her blonde tresses up and donned glittering jewellery
Queen Camilla dazzled in diamonds and sapphires tonight as President Macron kissed her hand and King Charles declared their welcome to France Magnifique
Chandeliers donned the room as celebrity guests tucked into a banquet
King Charles’ speech in full
Mr. President
Madame Macron
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
I cannot tell you how delighted my wife and I are to be with you this evening at the end of the first day of our first State Visit in France. If
I may say so, it has been worth the wait! We are both enormously touched by the magnificent welcome that has been extended to us. France and the French people have shown us such remarkable warmth and kindness, and we are very grateful.
Your generosity of spirit brings to mind how my family and I were so greatly moved by the tributes paid in France to my Mother, The late Queen, whose funeral took place one year ago yesterday. Mr. President, among the many profoundly moving gestures here, the flying of the Union flag at the Elysée was particularly poignant. Your words, at that time, meant a great dealt to us too. You said that she had touched your hearts – and it was she who held France in the greatest affection, as, of course, did my grandmother Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
My parents’ first official visit together was to France in nineteen forty-eight, shortly after their wedding. By all accounts, they made quite a splash, dancing till the early hours at the glamourous Chez Carrere in the Rue Pierre Charron, serenaded by Edith Piaf. I suspect it may have left an indelible impression on me, even six months before I was born – La Vie en Rose is one of my favourite songs to this day!
And, of course, President Pompidou hosted my mother here at the Palace of Versailles on her second State Visit in nineteen seventy-two. I was reminded recently that when she returned the courtesy with dinner for the President and Madame Pompidou at the Hotel de Charost, they ran into a little more difficulty. Our Embassy tried to bring several cases of English wine over from Hampshire for the banquet, only to be prevented by a customs official at Orly. In those days, there was no such thing as ‘English wine’… As Roland Topor surmised, “les Français ont du vin, les Anglais de l’humour”.
Mr. President – your invitation to visit France and your exceptionally generous hospitality, are symbols of the enduring relationship between our two countries. The connections between our people are myriad, and represent the lifeblood of our Entente Cordiale, which was inspired by my great great Grandfather, King Edward the seventh. As we look ahead to the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale in twenty twenty-four, it is incumbent upon us all to reinvigorate our friendship to ensure it is fit for the challenges of this, the twenty-first century. I was therefore heartened to see the visit of my Prime Minister to Paris earlier this year for the first Franco-British Summit in five years, where you both looked ahead to a renewal of the Entente, strengthening our cooperation to tackle today’s challenges, such as the defence of Ukraine, the misery of human trafficking, access to energy and a sustainable future.
In our long and complex history, our relations have of course not always been entirely straightforward. I think it was a French King who once said that he would rather be a wood-cutter than the King of England, dealing with our national complexities. As an avid forester, I am pleased to report that it is entirely possible to combine the two!
As it happens, woodworkers offer an unexpected example of our modern bonds. Marlin Hendry from the hills of Devon, and Mike Dennis, apprenticed in the valleys of South Wales, are – like many talented artisans – using traditional tools to fashion strong and beautiful new beams for the roof of Notre Dame from their workshop in Normandy.
Having been utterly appalled by the scenes of such devastation following the catastrophic fire four and a half years ago, my wife and I look forward to visiting that magnificent cathedral tomorrow, to see for ourselves how centuries-old crafts have been revived and passed onto apprentices who are helping to restore Notre Dame to its former glory. In this regard, we were both, my wife and myself, so deeply sorry to hear of the death of General Jean-Louis Georgelin, one of France’s great soldiers, who led the restoration work there in his inimitable and charismatic way. We pay tribute to all he achieved.
All this brings to mind the incredible skill of the British and European artisans who restored Windsor Castle after its own devastating fire thirty years ago.
It shows us, perhaps, that history is not something to be consigned to a shelf, gathering dust, seldom to be revisited; rather history is something alive and man-made; our identity and sense of meaning maintained by living traditions, to which we constantly add new chapters; a guide not just to the past, but to the present, drawing timeless threads between generations.
As neighbours, we have long been fascinated by one another, and our cultural heritage derives more from one another than we might realize. The first restaurants in Paris, for instance, were modelled on British taverns, and as it happens one of the most famous was called “La Grande Taverne de Londres…” which would be a greater source of pride if it were not that their success was based on French food, French wine and French chefs! We did however provide a grateful clientele both in France, and in London. And you have a very grateful British diner this evening!
Mr President, our nations’ long history has been written by countless extraordinary men and women, from Guillaume le Conquérant to ‘Big Moustache’ of La Grande Vadrouille; and from Eleanor of Aquitaine to the late, great, Jane Birkin, la plus française des britanniques, who both on screen and off, have helped to define our common destiny.
Today, our countries stand together against oppression and in support of the most vulnerable, including those who suffer the devastating impact of natural disaster or conflict – whether in Ukraine, in Libya and in Morocco.
Together, we strive to protect and restore our natural world and to combat the existential threat of global warming and climate change. On this, Mr. President, I wholeheartedly share the view you expressed at the One Planet Summit last year, when you spoke of how a more sustainable world can both preserve our heritage, and provide future opportunity – to encourage our businesses, our governments and our people to work together as rapidly as possible to ensure that our energy and our finance is directed where it can have the most impact. Tomorrow, we shall meet together with business leaders from France and Britain, whose innovations and investments are supporting that vision, investing in clean growth and to preserve our precious biodiversity.
Our two countries are also working together to build opportunity for the next generation. As I have sought to encourage through the Prince’s Trust I established some forty-seven years ago, marvellous things can result when young people are empowered to fulfil their potential. Tomorrow, my wife and I will see this in action at Saint Denis, where the Rugby World Cup is inspiring new generations to take up sport, thanks to partnerships with community groups such as “Sport Dans la Ville” and “Objectif Emploi”, amongst others. As for the World Cup itself, whatever the result of the tournament – on which I will simply say, diplomatically, “May the best team win!” – we can all surely agree that you deserve all our thanks for the magnificent tournament you are hosting with such panache, in cities the length and breadth of this beautiful country.
In all of these efforts, on and off the field, as so often in our history, we must persevere. As a master craftsman shapes each stone to play its part, so must each of our endeavours build upon the last, rising from foundations laid by those who came before. Working together, with ambition and determination, who knows how far we can reach.
By protecting our precious planet, and by fostering security, opportunity and hope, we will continue to grow together – strong, vital, prosperous.
Mr. President, in all of this we can rely on our firm friendship, which is renewed and reinvigorated with each new generation.
I would like if you would allow me, to raise a toast to President and Madame Macron and to the French people, as well as to our Entente Cordiale – a sustainable alliance. Whatever lies ahead, may it endure, faithful and constant, for centuries to come.
===
Queen Camilla dazzled in diamonds and sapphires tonight as President Macron kissed her hand and King Charles declared their welcome to France ‘Magnifique’.
Among them was French royalty, actress, and singer Charlotte Gainsbourg, in a black dress split to the thigh which barely covered her modesty, as the locals say.
Celebrity guests included Sir Mick Jagger, who owns a chateau in France, French-British actress Emma Mackey, as well as footballing legends with ties to England and France including, Patrick Vieira, Arsene Wenger, and Didier Drogba.
Camilla and Brigitte, 70, matched in navy ball gowns while Charles and Emmanuel opted for black bow ties and dinner jackets.
In a nod to her hosts, Camilla dressed in Dior and was draped with a stunning parure of jewellery inherited from her late mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth.
She and the King were greeted by Macron and his wife, Bridgette, on the red carpet.
And in a sweet moment – which summed up the Entente Cordiale of the day – Mme Macron could be seen carefully adjusting Camilla’s cape after it slid down her shoulder and she struggled to fix it.
King Charles and Queen Camilla twinned with President and Brigitte Macron in France today as the two couples headed to a state banquet at the Palace of Versailles
Camilla received a typically French greeting as President Macron kissed her on the hand at the banquet
Camilla, 74, and Brigitte, 70, matched in navy ball gowns while Charles and Emmanuel opted for black bow ties and dinner jackets
The two heads of state looked very close as they headed into the banquet in Versailles
The two couples seemed to get on exceptionally well as they walked the red carpet together
The two couples looked sensational as they posed for cameras in front of the historic Palace
Camilla wore the King George VI Sapphire Suite necklace and earrings for the grand occasion
The king and president were all smiles as they held hands and smiled with one another in France
Charles and French President Emmanuel Macron arrive to attend a state dinner
The two couples dressed very similarly in an apparent show of solidarity
At one point, Brigitte Macron appeared to help Camilla with her cape
Brigitte and Camilla appeared particularly close adjusting each other’s clothing
Charles and Macron appear to be exceptionally close
At one point, Brigitte put on a very animated display while chatting to Charles and Camilla
The king and president were very giggly with one another as they headed into Versailles
A true lady! The first lady helped Camilla with her cape as they headed into the gala
Meanwhile, Charles and Macron shook hands and laughed with one another
Brigitte was on hand to help Camilla with her cape while heading into the gala
Camilla looked typically radiant with sparkling jewellery
Charles and Macron were close to another
The two couples appeared exceptionally close as they laughed their way into the ball
Brigitte and Emmanuel were on hand to greet Charles and Camilla as they stepped out of the car
Brigitte quickly shook the monarch’s hand
Queen Camilla, King Charles III, and President of France Emmanuel Macron walked in unison into the party
Charles and Camilla were the last to arrive and came via car
Queen Camilla, King Charles III arriving at the State Banquet at the Palace of Versailles
President Emmanuel Macron, his wife Brigitte Macron, Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla attend a concert in the Royal Chapel before a state dinner in the Palace of Versailles
King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive to attend a state dinner in their honor at the Chateau de Versailles (Versailles Palace) in Versailles
French Republican Guards stand to attention at the Palace of Versailles ahead of a state banquet
Brigitte Macron helps Queen Camilla fix her cape as they arrive at the banquet
—
Inside was incredibly glamourous with flowers on the table and ornate statues throughout
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly was among the guests at the ball
James Cleverly opted for a tuxedo for the occasion
Mick Jagger – who famously supports Arsenal – was spotted chatting to Arsene Wenger who coached the Gunners for more than two decades
Mick Jagger joined his girlfriend Melanie Hamrick on the red carpet to attend the State Banquet on the Palace of Versailles
The couple showed off their best moves on the red carpet
Melanie Hamrick and Mick Jagger attending the State Banquet at the Palace of Versailles
Jane Birkin’s daughter, French actress, and singer Charlotte Gainsbourg also attended the red carpet
The daughter of the late handbag muse Jane Birkin looked typically French in a chic black dress with semi-opaque tights
Bernard Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, and his wife Helene Mercier arrive to attend a state dinner in honor of Britain’s King Charles
French-British actress Emma Mackey arrives to attend a state banquet at the Palace of Versailles
They are well known for using foie gras in their cooking, with pastry chef Mr Herme using it in his chocolate macaroons.
A government source in Paris said: ‘The King has banned foie gras from his residences in Britain, so there was no possibility of him eating it in France.
‘He doesn’t want asparagus that is out of season either, because shipping it in is environmentally damaging, but there will be a mushroom gratin, which was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth.
‘We understand that Charles was out foraging for mushrooms just before his mother’s death in Scotland’.
There will be a touch of English cheese to delight the royal entourage and dedicated Anglophiles.
Instead, Le Menu at Versailles will be a starter of blue lobster and pot crab with a veil of fresh almonds and peppermint, created by Ms. Pic; a main course of Bresse chicken with corn and a porcini mushroom gratin cooked by Mr. Alleno; a 30-month old Comte, Stichelton English blue; an Isfahan Persian macaroon for dessert, Mr. Herme’s signature pudding inspired by the ancient city in Iran, and containing rose water, raspberries, and lychees.
Wines costing more than £400 a bottle will also be served: Pol Roger Cuvée Winston Churchill 2013 Champagne at more than £500-a-magnum, Batard Montrachet Grand Cru 2018 costing £430 and a £400 Chateau Mouton Rothschild 2004.
Ken Follett arrives at the Palace of Versailles ahead of the State Dinner held in honor of King Charles III and Queen Camilla
Footballing legend Didier Drogba, who played for Marseille before heading to the Premiere League,
Hugh Grant and Anna Elisabet Eberstein arrive at the Palace of Versailles ahead of the State Dinner held in honor of King Charles III and Queen Camilla
FIFA Chief of Global Football Development Arsene Wegner – who is French but lives in the UK for decades while managing Arsenal – was also in attendance
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and his wife Susannah Janet Temple Cleverly also attended the gala
Louise de Rothschild and David de Rothschild arrive at the Palace of Versailles
General managing director of French container transportation and shipping company CMA CGM Rodolphe Saade (L) and French President of the Franco-British Colloque, Pierre-Andre Chalendar, arrive to attend a state banquet at the Palace of Versailles
Guillaume Gallienne and Amandine Gallienne arrive to attend a state dinner in honour of King Charles and Queen Camilla
Alain Minc arrives at the Palace of Versailles ahead of the State Dinner held in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Hall of Mirrors
Carole Bouquet arrives at the Palace of Versailles ahead of the State Dinner held in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Hall of Mirrors
Former French culture minister Jack Lang (R) and his wife Monique Buczynski (L) pose at the Palace of Versailles before a state banquet hosted by the French president and his wife
Chloé Bouygues and Yannick Bolloré arrive at the Palace of Versailles ahead of the State Dinner
Yael Braun-Pivet, President of the National Assembly, and Vianney Pivet arrive to attend a state dinner in honor of Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Chateau de Versailles
Cries of ‘King’ from Paris balconies as Charles walks through street
Organisers invited a range of celebrities to eat and drink with King Charles and Queen Camilla in the lavish Hall of Mirrors – a space designed to reflect the omnipotence of the ‘Sun King’, Louis XIV.
Jagger, 80, travelled from his own stately home – the Chateau de Fourchette (Fork House) in Indre-et-Loire – for the evening.
Billionaire Bernard Arnault, 74, is the head of the LVMH luxury goods conglomerate, and owns multiple homes around the world, including mansions in Paris and Bordeaux.
Rich lists regularly put him at number one, and in 2012 he was made Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire ‘for services to business’ by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Franco-British actors on the 150-strong guest list include Charlotte Gainsbourg, 52, and Emma Mackey, 27, from the Netflix series Sex Education, and actor Hugh Grant, 63.
Sports personalities who are invited include former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, 73, and former Arsenal and France midfielder Patrick Vieira, 47, along with former Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker, Didier Drogba, 45, who previously played for Marseille.
Earlier today, Charles touched down in Paris and was greeted with shouts of ‘King’ from balconies as he and Camilla received a rapturous welcome upon their arrival.
The King beamed and waved at the adoring crowds as he walked through the streets of Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron before they exchanged gifts with one another and held talks at the Elysee Palace ahead of a lavish state dinner later this evening.
Inside the residence, the King and President met staff and their families and planted a tree in the garden, following a long tradition begun by the late Queen Elizabeth .
In a sign of the warmth of their relationship, Mr Macron had gifted the oak sapling to the King from his Versailles estate and wanted to join him for the ceremonial moment.
Charles was met with cries of ‘King’ from Paris balconies as he and Emmanuel Macron walked through the streets of the French capital together
Moment President Macron shares a joke with giggling King Charles
King Charles smiles warmly as he chats to President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris on the first day of his state visit
King Charles III laughs as he and French President Macron gather for a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in the centre of Paris
Bienvenue! King Charles and Camilla arrive in France for state visit.
French President Emmanuel Macron his wife wife Brigitte Macron welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla for an official welcoming ceremony
The garden already features five trees planted by British Royals, including three by the late Queen. They include a Persian Highwood from her first state visit to France in 1957, a Gingko Biloba from a 1972 visit and a Cork Oak from her final visit to France.
To shouts from onlookers of ‘vive le roi’ the King had a brief walkabout through one of the more exclusive streets of central Paris.
The two men were walking the short distance from the Elysée Palace to the British ambassador’s residence in the Rue du Faubourg St-Honoré just a couple of hundred metres away.
As they started off amid tight security the walk was a sterile business by the standards of British royalty. The street had been closed off to the public, and the only onlookers were office workers peering down from the balconies above. Sporadic applause greeted their progress, polite rather than enthusiastic.
But then, as they neared the residence, real crowds appeared, with real enthusiasm.
The King pointed to them, and the two heads of state looked at each other and said: ‘Shall we say hello?’ – which they duly did.
One woman in the crowd, who shook hands with the King and gave her name as Sophie, from Lyon, said: ‘I came here to see the King and because I think it’s an important and memorable moment for our two countries, especially since Brexit .
‘For my part, it [coming here] was in some sense also a tribute to Queen Elizabeth.’
She added: ‘People here still have an affection for the British crown.’
Charles and Camilla arrived shortly before 2pm on a private chartered flight from Farnborough, travelling on what is dubbed the ‘baby Voyager’ airbus plane to Paris Orly airport, where they were officially welcomed by the French Prime Minister, Elisabeth Borne, on behalf of President Macron and the French government.
They were also received by foreign James Cleverly, the UK’s ambassador to France Dame Menna Rawlings and the French Ambassador to the UK, Hélène Tréheux-Duchêne.
Camilla was a pop of colour in an elegant dusky pink wool crepe coat dress by Fiona Clare, and a pink beret-shaped hat by milliner Philip Treacy, which she held on to tightly due to blustery conditions as they walked along a red carpet, brushed to perfection earlier.
The royals were then whisked off in the State Bentley to the Arc de Triomphe where they were greeted by the President Macron, 45, and his wife Brigitte, 70, for a ceremony of remembrance and wreath laying at the iconic monument.
The President gave a small bow to the King and Queen, while Bridgette Macron – more business-like than Camilla in a navy jacket and short blue skirt with heels – gave Camilla a friendly kiss on each cheek. President Macron was then seen chuckling with the Queen as she repeatedly tried to keep her hat in place.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have landed in France for their three-day state visit. This afternoon they were welcomed by President Macron at an official ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, where the two leaders went on to lay a wreath
As the King and President laid the wreath as a both nations’ air forces conducted a magnificent fly past, soaring over the famous Parisian landmark
President Emmanuel Macron with his wife Brigitte and Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive for a bilateral meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris
Queen Camilla and Brigitte Macron help each other down a short flight of steps during this afternoon’s meeting at the Elysee Palace
Charles performs the re-kindling of the eternal flame using the Comite de la Flamme passed to him by Mr Macron
Britain’s King Charles and French President Emmanuel Macron attend a remembrance ceremony at Arc de Triomphe Paris
Emmanuel Macron bows and holds Queen Camilla’s hand. The Queen and King Charles are in France on a three-day State Visit
King Charles and Camilla disembark their plane arriving at a windy Orly Airport this afternoon
After being whisked away from the airport, Charles met President Macron at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris marking the first day of their state visit
President Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron greet King Charles and Queen Camilla at an official ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
King Charles and Queen Camilla greet French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne after landing in France’s Orly Airport this afternoon
The King and Queen walk down the red carpet alongside the Prime Minister
Camilla’s ‘Marilyn moment’: Gust of wind surprises Queen in France
Queen Camilla was forced to hold on to her hat this afternoon as she disembarked off the plane in Paris
The French President was seen chuckling as Camilla was forced to hold onto her hat once again due to the blustery conditions in Paris
President Macron and his wife, Mme Macron, greeted their guests warmly, having posted a glowing video tribute to the British monarch – showing Charles in France over the decades – on their social media outlets earlier. It read: ‘You visited as a Prince, you return as a King. Your Majesty, welcome.’
As the King and President laid the wreath as a both nations’ air forces conducted a magnificent fly past, soaring over the famous Parisian landmark. As part of the ceremony, Charles was invited by the president to symbolically light the monument’s eternal flame which burns in memory of those who died in the First and Second World Wars.
A military band played the national anthems of Britain and France before His Majesty was escorted by the President to inspect the soldiers, consisting of the Regimental Band of the Garde Républicaine, the French Colour Part and the Tri-Service Guard of Honour. Meanwhile, the Queen chatted enthusiastically with Madame Macron.
After the Guard Inspection, The King and President Macron made their way to the Plateau, the centre piece of the Arc de Triomphe, where they stopped at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Both men bowed in silence in front of the eternal flame under the war memorial, before together laying a wreath in tribute to those who perished in the First and Second World Wars.
Nestled in the floral arrangement of white and red roses, the King placed a handwritten card with: ‘In everlasting remembrance’, written in English and French.
After the lighting, the bugle call ‘Aux Morts’, the French equivalent of ‘The Last Post’, meaning ‘to the dead’, was sounded and followed by a minute’s silence.
The British national anthem was followed by the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, as a stunning flypast of the Patrouille de France and the Red Arrows roared above the Champs-Élysées.
The Arc was the location for the Ceremonial Arrival of Queen Elizabeth II for Her Majesty’s final State Visit to France in 2014.
Charles and Macron wave at crowds during Republican Guard parade
Nestled in the floral arrangement of white and red roses, the King placed a handwritten card with: ‘Iin everlasting remembrance’, written in English and French
The President gave a small bow to the King and Queen, while Bridgette Macron – more business-like than Camilla in a navy jacket and short blue skirt with heels – gave Camilla a friendly kiss on each cheek
A military band played the national anthems of Britain and France before His Majesty was escorted by the President to inspect the soldiers
Britain’s King Charles, his wife Queen Camilla, French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron attend a remembrance ceremony
The French head of state’s spouse, Brigitte Macron and Queen Camilla speak after a ceremonial welcome at The Arc De Triomphe
Brigitte Macron and Queen Camilla meet representatives of local veteran organisations, scout and guide organisations, and the British School of Paris during a ceremonial welcome at the Arc de Triomphe
Queen Camilla shakes hands with one of the attendees during the short meeting at the Arc de Triomphe
As Charles and Camilla arrived in Paris this afternoon, a major security operation was underway – six months after they were forced to postpone their trip because of violent protests in the country
Britain’s King Charles leans in to chat with soldiers during a remembrance ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris today
King Charles greets the crowds, shaking hands with people after attending a remembrance ceremony on the first day of his state visit
French President Emmanuel Macron talks with King Charles III as they leave the Champs-Elysees after the welcoming ceremony of their royal visit to Paris
The King was in a jovial mood as he smiled and laughed while walking from the Elysee Palace to the British ambassador to France’s residence
King Charles waves to crowds while President Macron beams as they walk through the streets of Paris with an entourage
Crowds flocked onto the streets of central Paris to watch the moment that King Charles III and Camilla arrived for the ceremony
King Charles III with President Macron before planting an oak tree at the British Ambassador’s residence after the ceremony
Macron shares footage of Charles’s previous official trips to France
The President of the flame committee then invited Charles and Camilla to sign the ‘Livre d’Or’ or the ‘Golden Book’, to mark their visit.
Their Majesties, accompanied by the President and Madame Macron, then left in a waiting car to be driven down the Champs-Elysée toward the Elysée Palace, escorted by two Squadrons of the Mounted Regiment of the Garde Républicaine.
The King presented President Macron with a photography album containing images of the two of them.
Charles, 74, also gave Mr Macron a complete edition of French author Voltaire’s writings as they met at the Elysee Palace.
The complete edition included Voltaire’s Lettres sur les Anglais, otherwise known as Lettres philosophiques.
The works have been edited by Prof Nicholas Cronk, director of the Voltaire Foundation and a leading UK academic at Oxford University.
Having started work in 1968, the complete works, comprising 205 volumes, was only recently finished in April 2022.
In return, Mr Macron gave the King a golden coin from the Monnaie de Paris featuring Charles’s portrait.
He also gave him a first-edition prize-winning French novel – Romain Gary’s novel Les Racines (The Roots of Heaven), which won the Prix Goncourt, France’s highest literary award in 1956.
The King and Mr Macron arrived by car at the Elysee together just before 4pm, closely followed by the Queen and Brigitte Macron.
The foursome exchanged pleasantries as they stood at the end of a red carpet in the courtyard, laughing and joking together.
They then made their way up the red carpet, pausing to pose for photographs before Charles and Camilla led the way inside.
Mr Macron appeared particularly animated, joking with the gathered media.
Inside, the King and Mr Macron posed for photographs in the lavishly decorated Salon d’ore which is used as the President’s main office.
As they entered the room, Charles jokingly asked if the waiting photographers were always there.
The men posed before the French and EU flags before taking their seats for a private discussion.
The King and Mr Macron left on foot at 16.40, headed for the UK ambassador’s residence where they will plant an oak tree presented as a gift by the French President.
The two men appeared to be in deep conversation as they strolled out of the grounds together.
The couples will then meet a number of community sports groups and sports stars as France hosts the Rugby World Cup and prepares to host the Olympics next year.
After travelling to Bordeaux, the King and Queen will meet emergency workers and communities affected by the Bordeaux wildfires in 2022, highlighting how to tackle climate change.
While in the region the King will also meet British and French military personnel as well as attend a GREAT campaign where British and French businesses will be showcased.
Finishing off their jam-packed visit, they will take a trip to an organic vineyard before flying back to Scotland where they have spent the summer.
Comments 2178
Page 1 of 13
The comments below have not been moderated.
Karmasender, Melbourne , Australia
Royalty should end. It is outdated and really Not needed as they do Nothing, but spend taxpayers’ money on living a good lifestyle.
wakeeeuppp, London, United Kingdom
These people want to screw us over and people are admiring their outfits?
gillianohickey, Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom
That stupid flag with the gold stars in the background!
Improper Conduct, England, United Kingdom
Stuart F. Farquhar , London, United Kingdom
The Monarchy is finished
Newlink, Riverdale, United States
Mick Jagger should start issuing numbers for his wives. Easier to recall which one it is.
Stephan london, London, United Kingdom
nah just help you .. nurse .. number two bed three lol
chris75, London
I feel proud we have so many notable public figures in attendance and I think it shows we are approaching the return of EU membership thank god. What an embarrassment the Tories have been to our nation these past 7 years. No wonder none of them were invited. What a terrible cabal that has denigrated our nation. We will be welcomed back with open arms and our future generations will be taught about what a terrible decision Brexit was, albeit Russian-state-driven and Mail-backed.
BigManBinster, Binnyville, United Kingdom
Cost of living crisis hitting millions of hard working people.. Our elderly choosing between heat and eat… Meanwhile….
Happygardening, Newhaven, United Kingdom
Bore off lefty ….just keep sponging and doing nothing but whinge ….are you Harry?
Socialist Everton, Liverpool, United Kingdom
Has this unelected dysfunctional billionaire Royal family got no shame at all???? Flaunting, it’s stolen wealth like a badge of honour. I’m surprised they haven’t set up a go fund us for the 12 million quid they gave to someone they’ve never met.
Aviance, Mount Vernon, United States
King and Queen of adultery.
moggy, London, United Kingdom
The Palace of Versailles – good to see it being used for a purpose.
m3173, Here
Wow, a banquet in the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles… Could an evening possibly be more enchanting than that?
Kinetics1, Crowded, United Kingdom
These people are so out of touch they may as well be from another planet.
Spocks-dad, London, United Kingdom
I think they are, they haven’t a scooby about the real world.
unicornmantaigu, The Planet Western Hemisphere, France
Vive l’amiti franco britannique. douard vii played a significant role in l’Entente Cordiale. Charles is following in the footsteps of previous generations who value the Franco-British relationship. We have far more in common and should stay united against common enemies who would rather we stay apart.
CC Barnes, Dublin, Ireland
Us showbiz ??????
Mdg59, Northampton, United Kingdom
I have no idea how we can ever forget what they did to Diana just watch the crown
PeeWee, Cheshire, United Kingdom
Camilla looks stunning! Surely, they could have got some better guests than Mick Jagger and Hugh Grant!!
fratia, Woodbridge, Canada
There is something wrong with Charles, his hands are very swollen and they look like they are retaining fluid. Not a good sign.
P2DYSON, London
If anybody from the Royal Team / Palace is looking at these comments – for the love of God get Charles a decent suit. As if you’ve sent him out on a state visit wearing that.. come on now.
Newlink, Riverdale, United States
They do drink awfully much, don’t you think?
Belle, Liverpool, United Kingdom
Disgusting show of wealth
Poppy_beebomb, York, United Kingdom
Meanwhile back in the camps in Calais… And what’s happening to Charles’ suits? Going a bit Charlie Chaplin or what?
margaret, york, United Kingdom
The necklace and earrings look wonderful, what has let her down is no Tiara there is a tiara that goes with the necklace why did she not wear it . The Late Queen wore a Tiara when she dined at Versailles such a pity Camilla did not, the dress was not that good either Chanel have far better dresses than that I can not believe it is one of theirs
Rich Git, Third Reichgate, United Kingdom
Le Jollie.
CrazyChickenLady69, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Did they converse in English or French … and hopefully Charlie changed into a half-decent suit
P2DYSON, London
Thank you! I’ve just commented as much, i.e., that “suit”.
guy.burgess, West Meon, United Kingdom
Hugh G looks good with his beard.
realworldresident, UK, United Kingdom
Just continuing on from the conversation with Sir Keir.
gottalaugh, Austin, United States
Uh, no.
BlancheDevereaux, Miami, United States
Macron’s wife has her face pulled so tight that she’s going to pop. She looks older than Jagger
PooBear, London
Is that Antoine du Bec serving them drinks and nibbles – lol
not2late, around, United Kingdom
King could maybe have displayed dismay at the dinghy’s popping over every day …
guy.burgess, West Meon, United Kingdom
N e p o & mummy’s boy.
Mrs. Normal, Here, United Kingdom
The ladies look fabulous.
Tommy Sandwiches, Polegate, United Kingdom
Hugh’s wife looks divine in brown.
KdeA66, Cape Town, South Africa
Disgusting people!
VaderOf3, Not so sunny Rhyl, United Kingdom
Sausage fingers on tour
Grammar Boy, Toronto, Canada
So original.
revo, Sydney, Australia
Filth
guy_gibsons new dog, Manchester, United Kingdom
Why weren’t any of the Lampedusa newcomers invited? Whilst Europe is on the way to burning the elites live it up as though nothing was happening!!
Debrah, Anaheim, United States
I wonder if the talk and say ” Let wear blue”…
CrispyG, Exeter, United Kingdom
Ask him where our 100 million is spent on stopping boats
Major Alwys Wriight, Berkshire, United Kingdom
You pathetic little Englanders are obsessed with boats.
Karmasender, Melbourne , Australia
It’s spent on making more depopulation jabs.
Royal Tiara, BELFAST N.I., United Kingdom
Actually, Queen Camilla looks the best dressed for the occasion, people seem to forget she is in her 70s and tries her best to support the King, who has been going through some very difficult and stressful situations these past few years! Proud of you Camilla ….. well done !!
David DHL, Dungannon, United Kingdom
Imagine people worshipping 2 adulterers
Spocks-dad, London, United Kingdom
Also a pe@ dough there.
J Anne, Long Beach, United States
The King’s hands look so swollen. That must be so bothersome.
PooBear, London
Blimey yes. Not good surely
Us, In the UK, United Kingdom
Did they discuss stopping the ILLEGAL immigrants?
MixedFrog, Paris, France
Long Live the Franco-British friendship. Even If we hate each other, we love each other…
Sydney.Arberbridge, Suffolk, United Kingdom
A friendly rivalry is always good fun
Middleham3, Macclesfield, United Kingdom
Oui, c’est vrai. Merci.
simon.latham, London, United Kingdom
Bet all the Ferrero Rocher will be gone by the end of the night.
Deedee62, Anywhere, United States
Hardly. The world is relieved we have someone sane in charge.
Us, In the UK, United Kingdom
So it is just a party of rich and famous people with no real significance to ordinary people
Sydney.Arberbridge, Suffolk, United Kingdom
You are only ordinary if you believe you are.
MrWick, Independent Nation of Cornwall, United Kingdom
A good turnout from Slytherin. However Gryffindor, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are boycotting the event due to the appearence of Lord Voldemort. And thier belief that Magic should only be used for the Highest Good of Humanity. Take care out there.
Gator_Gal, West Palm Beach, United States
So much privilege. Sickening
topbee.uk, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Charles trousers are too baggy.
Robert Graves11, Thebes, Tuvalu
Who?? LOL
guy.burgess, West Meon, United Kingdom
Roomful of n epos losers.
Proud Aussies, Perth, Australia
I still consider KC3 to be an intrum King. He might do a good job, but he is no QE2. It will give William time to grow into his role and learn the ropes, but I think Charles will pass it on when the time is right, well hopefully he will anyway.
Derek on Dover, Dover, United States
Queen hid’eous decre’pit side chick and her equally di’sgusting two timing g’igolo adulterer enabler with all the f’ake pomp and pageantry of to nobody’s pretending there somebody. They’re only relevant because of a ridiculous title that was handed down to them.
Max Remsberg, Ann Arbor, United States
“God save the Queen”, man.
Sheehan , flagstaff, United States
Charles’s hands are so swollen. Looks painful
Sydney.Arberbridge, Suffolk, United Kingdom
Macron fancies Camilla
margaret, york, United Kingdom
He can have her if he wants
Matips Big Toe, In front of the Kop, United Kingdom
There will never be an end to the class system. People born into vast wealth will always be lauded and deemed more important. It’s all ludicrous
Sydney.Arberbridge, Suffolk, United Kingdom
It isn’t a question of being born into it, it is about acquiring it. People born into it can lose it, people without it can get it. It is the game of life.
observer10, Bloemfontein, South Africa
I love Camilla’s outfit! This is the most beautiful and royal she has ever looked.
SlimKeith, NYC, United States
You’ve earned your PR check, collect it at the office down the hall.
sunglazed, Houston, United States
She looks like a Queen in it! Stylist knocked it out!
GuchyGood, London, United Kingdom
Trump and the Lizard also met like that. When it was? 4 years ago? Now they are both dead
GladeMaid, Auckland, New Zealand
That was an interesting and gracious speech by the king.
FrankCrok, Tarawa, Kiribati
You’ve been slagging Macron and France about everything for the last few years and now, all of a sudden you’re all matey matey…I wonder why. Could it be that Macron could put a good word in ??
david glowacki, London, United Kingdom
Macron seems more at ease with Charles than he did with Starmer and Sunak
Lady Annabell, London, United Kingdom
Makes me sick, pigs in a trough.
BallysBoots, Sainte Maxime, United Kingdom
Chas is younger than Mick Jagger
ppundit, Plymouth, United Kingdom
The French Revolution is dead. Long live the French Revolution.
pannick, Chantilly, France
Charles seems more popular than our president!
Cheeky boys mummy, Doverland, United Kingdom
I love the queen’s sapphires
A regular person, Liverpool, United Kingdom
Camilla looks fabulous in this outfit and jewellery.
David DHL, Dungannon, United Kingdom
U know the world is in a mess when Christians make 2 adulterers the head of the church and millions worship them
Connie, NOLA, United States
How very rock and roll, Mick.
bikerjan1, Manchester, United Kingdom
Pic 17, we don’t need any close-ups
BobbyDazzler82, Hereford, United Kingdom
Glad to see the King and Queen looking dapper as usual
QuickQuestiion, Nextdoortoyou, United States
Macron sat at the kid’s table.
Lazybones2022, Worcester, United Kingdom
The ladies looked absolutely elegant in blue and such beautiful designs.
null,
It’s all wrong. Removed from reality and totally pompous.
bikerjan1, Manchester, United Kingdom
Why is Jagger there?
Spocks-dad, London, United Kingdom
To make Camilla look in good nick.
philtheblue, Manchester, United Kingdom
His contribution to French-British relations. As a tax exile!
StillStillTruth, Censorshipville, United Kingdom
Macron has a BUTLER in his PALACE I thought he was a socialist poor person on 9.50 an hour with a shared cake.
margaret, york, United Kingdom
This is what a republic is, the US president also has a butler, as do most countries’ Presidents. No so different from a monarchy is it
Bob, Bridport, United Kingdom
What do Hugh Grant and Mick Jagger have to do with this? Simply hangers on seeking adulation. Pathetic.
Charlz King, St Helier, Jersey
I wouldn’t fit in at that party I look too young and too normal.
pollyannapink, Dorset
I think Jack and Monique are using the very same bottle of hair dye ! Mon Dieu !
ellegrave, Lexington Park, United States
Camilla is a beauty!
2 of 3 replies See all replies
Sirius Lee, Ottawa, Canada
Your seeing eye dog still sick?
gottalaugh, Austin, United States
What? Her teeth are horrible.
Julia Tyler, Charlestown, United States
Good clothes and the Crown Jewels are wasted on Camilla. They need to retire and let William begin his reign
bikerjan1, Manchester, United Kingdom
What the ‘ell has Camzilla got on, the latest in tents?
GladeMaid, Auckland, New Zealand
No, an elegant Dior gown with a cape.
gottalaugh, Austin, United States
The Blue one?
Tony, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
The PR is strong on these BOT comments, have a real unbiased comment box
Rowanb, New York, United States
Big stain on front of dress. No class
Eastham1, thetford, United Kingdom
Biden / Trump …..Nuff said.
gottalaugh, Austin, United States
Look at your selves. Enough said.
Tonkler, England, United Kingdom
I hope they made a toast to Net Zero.
J Anne, Long Beach, United States
Both women look lovely.
J Anne, Long Beach, United States
The Queen had decades of training. Camilla has serious back issues and is probably rather uncomfortable and not a natural at these events. Let’s accept her as is and not dwell on the little things.
Charlz King, St Helier, Jersey
That’s a use for the word lovely I haven’t come across before
Redhel, Nottingham, United Kingdom
Calm down nasty, I meant her outfit! Google the SW ad!
KateThinks, London, United Kingdom
Brigitte and Camilla seem very supportive of each other.
richardsharpe51, Snowbound, Antarctica
I think Charlie’s other woman is trying to smuggle a migrant into the UK and Macron has taken his granny along for the big feed
vivablondie, Las Vegas, United States
And then there’s Joe and Jill who are the laughing stocks of the world.
odessatexas, odessatexas
My invitation got lost in the mail, honest.
Helen, Bath
Agree Camilla looks nice tonight but why is she always so fidgety? Constant fiddling during coronation with the crown, her hair, fussing on the balcony – now in France touching her hair and hat all the time, something the late Queen never did. She needs an Angela Kelly. Also don’t talk to hubby during national anthems, disrespectful.
Caoimbe, London, United Kingdom
Probably nerves.
BobbyDazzler82, Hereford, United Kingdom
Maybe she’s nervous? It’s ok you know
fleur1234, London, United Kingdom
Don’t know who thinks up the titles of articles, but it is actually quite funny.
NoBullHere, Manchester, United Kingdom
Just not the same without our late Queen, she had true class. One of a kind.
BobbyDazzler82, Hereford, United Kingdom
Indeed she was a class act, BUT far too distant playing the haughty governess. Charles does PR better.
Goblinkatie, Georgia, United States
Not for nothing, but it would be pretty cool to be able to casually mention that time you were at a party in Versailles.
fleur1234, London, United Kingdom
you can buy a ticket to go. they have music evenings in the gardens and even the fountains are programmed to follow the music.
Maisie Just Saying, London, United Kingdom
Love it when old people get together and talk about the good old days.
Caoimbe, London, United Kingdom
Your day will come, that’s if you are lucky enough.
Maisie Just Saying, London, United Kingdom
Caoimbe: needs some action!
Had enough 1234, Silence, United Kingdom
King Charles’s hands might explode one day.
nelsonpk, Birmingham, United Kingdom
All that blue blood spurting out.
Mustangsallygogirl, Calgary, Canada
Bridgette has a very manly-looking chin and a very boxy manly torso from the back. Is she trans?
2 of 3 replies See all replies
SpottySkirt Wearer, London, United Kingdom
She has given birth to kids, from her previous marriage.
fleur1234, London, United Kingdom
says the person who can’t even spell her name correctly.
Page 1 of 13
View newest 10
The views expressed in the contents above are those of the comment writers.
xxx
XXX
xxx
