PARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron’s office said Thursday that U.S. President Joe Biden will make his first state visit to France next week after attending D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations in Normandy.
Macron will be hosting Biden and his wife Jill on June 8, the statement said.
Both presidents will discuss “the need for unwavering, long-term support for Ukraine” at a time when war has returned to Europe, 80 years after the landings that led to the liberation of France and the continent from Nazi Germany’s occupation, Macron’s office said.
In Normandy next week, major commemorations will draw 25 heads of state and government, along with dozens of World War II veterans, to honor the nearly 160,000 troops from Britain, the United States, Canada and other nations that landed on June 6, 1944.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is among those expected to attend.
Biden’s state visit will allow “close coordination” between France and the U.S. on world crises ahead of international events including the summit of the Group of Seven major economies next month in Italy and the NATO summit in Washington in July.
Discussions also will include climate-related issues and will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic, space and nuclear fields, the statement said.
Macron and his wife Brigitte went on a state visit to the U.S. in Dec. 2022.
President Joe Biden is set to embark on his first state visit to France following the D-Day commemorations in Normandy. The visit comes at a crucial time in the relationship between the United States and France, as both countries seek to strengthen their alliance and address pressing global issues.
The D-Day commemorations, which mark the 77th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II, serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by American and French soldiers in the fight against tyranny. President Biden’s participation in these events underscores the enduring bond between the two nations and their shared commitment to upholding democracy and freedom.
During his state visit to France, President Biden is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss a wide range of issues, including climate change, trade, and security cooperation. The leaders are also likely to address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to promote global vaccination efforts.
One key topic of discussion is expected to be the recent submarine deal between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, which has strained relations between France and its allies. President Macron has expressed his disappointment over the deal, which led to the cancellation of a major French contract to supply submarines to Australia. The meeting between President Biden and President Macron presents an opportunity to address these tensions and reaffirm the importance of cooperation among allies.
In addition to diplomatic discussions, President Biden’s visit to France is also expected to include cultural and historical engagements. The president will have the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, as well as pay his respects at memorials honoring American and French soldiers who fought and died together in past conflicts.
Overall, President Biden’s first state visit to France is a significant moment in the relationship between the two countries. As they work together to address global challenges and strengthen their partnership, the visit serves as a reminder of the enduring friendship between the United States and France and their shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity around the world.
