Welcome to our blog where we cover the latest news and updates on the state visit of U.S. President Joe Biden to France, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit comes hot on the heels of the 80th anniversary commemoration of D-Day, adding a sense of historical significance to the occasion.
The visit is set to be a grand affair, complete with a welcoming ceremony at the iconic Arc de Triomphe and a parade down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees. The two leaders will engage in talks on a wide range of issues, including trade, Israel, and Ukraine.
Despite past tensions over a submarine deal with Australia, Macron and Biden share a warm relationship. The visit aims to affirm the alliance between France and the United States while looking towards future collaborations in various policy areas.
According to U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, the discussions will cover critical topics such as Russia’s war with Ukraine, Israel’s conflict with Hamas, cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and policy issues like climate change and artificial intelligence.
Additionally, the two countries are expected to announce plans for increased cooperation in maritime law enforcement. Discussions on strengthening NATO and supporting Ukraine are also on the agenda.
Beyond geopolitical concerns, trade issues between the U.S. and Europe are likely to be a focal point of discussions. The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law by Biden in 2022, has raised eyebrows in Europe, with officials viewing it as protectionist.
Macron’s earlier warning about the act fragmenting the West and weakening the European recovery post-COVID will likely feature in the talks. The aim is to align the U.S. and EU economic agendas moving forward.
Follow our blog for live updates on this significant state visit and the key outcomes of the discussions between Macron and Biden.