Starmer joins Macron in Paris - this is what they discussed
Increased security measures were high on the agenda
The politicians have already met a number of times to discuss international cooperation since Sir Keir Starmer's election earlier this year
Credit: Sipa USA / Alamy Stock Photo
British prime minister Sir Keir Starmer visited France yesterday (November 11) as part of Armistice Day commemorations.
He became the first sitting PM to attend such an event in France since Winston Churchill in 1944. The event also commemorated the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale alliance between the two nations.
The prime minister announced increased funding for next year’s 80th commemoration of the end of the conflict (Victory Europe day on May 8 and Victory over Japan day on August 15) in the UK.
France held several large events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings earlier in 2024.
Alongside attending Armistice Day events, the politicians discussed a number of topics impacting the two countries, on both the European and global stage.
International security a major theme
Key discussion points revolved around conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
In terms of the former, the politicians discussed “how best to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position going into the winter,” an official spokesperson of the British government said.
This includes a bilateral commitment to continue supporting the country despite the political climate, with some believing new US president Donald Trump will reduce aid to Ukraine.
Read more: How the French feel about Trump's election win - new poll
Regarding the Middle East, Sir Keir and Mr Macron “underscored their deep concern at the situation in Gaza and Lebanon. They also reiterated the need for stability in the West Bank,” the UK spokesperson said.
The British embassy in France also said the politicians committed to deeper bilateral ties, particularly on the topic of security and defence. The next bilateral summit will be held next year in the UK.
Increased cooperation
Another key point discussed was migrant crossings across the English Channel, with both sides committing to increased cooperation on the matter, particularly on a crackdown of people-trafficking groups.
An increased level of cooperation in other fields including security and artificial intelligence was agreed, as well as biodiversity and protection of the oceans, and climate issues, the British embassy said.
Read more: UK autumn budget: What changes for Britons in France?
