King Charles III’s visit to France postponed

United Kingdom – Postponement of King Charles III’s State visit to France – Communiqué issued by the Presidency of the Republic

Paris, 24 March 2023

In view of yesterday’s announcement of another national day of action against pension reforms in France on Tuesday 28 March 2023, King Charles III’s visit to our country, initially scheduled from 26 to 29 March, will be postponed.

This decision was taken by the French and British Governments, following a telephone conversation between President Macron and the King this morning, with a view to welcoming His Majesty King Charles III under conditions in keeping with our friendly relationship. This State visit will be rescheduled as soon as possible./.

United Kingdom – Postponement of King Charles III’s State visit to France – Statements by M. Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic, on the sidelines of the European Council

Brussels, 24 March 2023

Thank you for your question, which gives me an opportunity to clarify things and provide a common-sense answer. I think you can see the situation relating to the pension reform protests in France. After the trade union confederation announced yesterday evening another day of mobilization on Tuesday, and with the King’s visit scheduled from Monday to Wednesday, I don’t think it would have been sensible for us – it would have lacked common sense – if we’d suggested that His Majesty The King and the Queen Consort pay a State visit in the middle of the demonstrations. So because we have a lot of friendship, respect and esteem for His Majesty The King, the Queen Consort and the British people, I took the initiative this morning of calling him and telling him what the situation was. Given that that day had been decided on, common sense and friendship led us to suggest a postponement. Conversely, what would have been abhorrent both for the British people and ourselves would have been to try and carry on as if nothing were happening, with incidents into the bargain.

We’ve suggested that when things calm down again, at the beginning of the summer, depending on our respective timetables, together we can book another State visit not only in keeping with the proper way to welcome the new King and the Queen Consort but also in circumstances that will enable him to get the best out of France, both Paris and Bordeaux. At his invitation, I’ll be there myself at the Coronation ceremony.