King Charles announced on Thursday that Britain and France share the responsibility of protecting democracy in Europe and ensuring the world addresses climate change, which he described as an "agreement for sustainability." Charles arrived in Paris on Wednesday for a three-day official visit aimed at closing the chapter on years of tension following Britain's vote to leave the European Union.
In fluent French, King Charles stated, "When we are together, our capabilities are limitless," during his first speech as a British monarch to the French Parliament in both chambers. He added, "This is why we must protect and care for the friendly agreement. For future generations, it becomes an agreement for sustainability to respond more effectively to the urgent necessity regarding climate and diversity."
The friendly agreement is an alliance dating back to 1904, which ended centuries of military conflicts between France and Britain, allowing the two European powers to stand united during the World Wars.
The king noted that with "unjust aggression" from Russia in its invasion of Ukraine over the past 18 months, the two countries once again face the potential outbreak of war on the continent. He emphasized, "Together, our resolve regarding the victory of Ukraine is unwavering."
During an official dinner at the Palace of Versailles on Wednesday, King Charles expressed the need to revive their friendship to meet the challenges of the 21st century. He is keen to follow in his late mother Queen Elizabeth's footsteps and mentioned her deep affection for France.
King Charles, accompanied by his wife Queen Camilla, visited Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte to see the restoration work following the devastating fire in 2019 that destroyed its roof.
