Biden and Macron celebrate US-French ties, show support for Ukraine and Gaza ceasefire deal

Following commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, French President Emmanuel Macron and Joe Biden celebrated the US President's official state visit to France with a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe.

Over the bond between the United States and France, President Biden alongside Macron at Elysee Palace, said,“This week, we have once again showed the world once again the power of allies, what we can achieve when we stand together. That’s what the relationship between France and the United States exemplifies."

The Bidens were welcomed by Macron and French first lady Brigitte Macron at the Arc de Triomphe. They paid their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, with a French military choir. The leaders observed a flyover and greeted officials from a French delegation.

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The event culminated with the leaders signing a guestbook and parading down the Champs-Élysées, which was lined with military personnel and decorated with American and French flags.

The Bidens then proceeded to the Elysée Palace for a working lunch with the Macrons, and later in the evening, they returned for a state dinner.

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Highlighting the historical alliance, Biden said, “That feat [Fourth of July, Declaration of Independence] would not have been possible ... were it not for France coming to our aid. We’re a nation because of France, in large part. You stepped up when we needed help.” He added, "France was our first friend. Remains one of our best friends."

Global issues discussed

During their discussion, Biden and Macron addressed several critical global issues. Biden reaffirmed their united stance on Ukraine and highlighted both countries' commitment to support against Russian aggression.

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“We know what happens if (Russian President Vladimir) Putin succeeds in subjugating Ukraine. … And we know Putin isn’t going to stop at Ukraine – it’s not just Ukraine, it’s about much more than Ukraine. All of Europe will be threatened. We’re not gonna let that happen... We will not walk away," Biden asserted.

Both leaders also discussed cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and climate change. Concerning the Gaza war, Macron showed backing for Biden's ceasefire proposal.

The visit marked an improvement in US-French relations since the diplomatic rift over the US-Australia submarine deal in September 2021, which led Macron to recall his ambassador.

(With inputs from agencies)