Historic State Visit Aims to Strengthen UK-France Ties, While Changing Times Reflect Altered Reactions.
Paris, France – On September 21, 2023, King Charles III of the United Kingdom embarked on a significant state visit to France, accompanied by Queen Camilla. The visit, intended to bolster diplomatic ties between the two nations, carried a sense of historical importance. However, while the royal couple received a warm welcome in Paris, the overall response from the French public appeared notably subdued.
This visit marked a historical milestone as the last time a British monarch paid a state visit to Paris was in 1938 when King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) were greeted by thousands of enthusiastic Parisians who lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the royal entourage. In stark contrast, during King Charles III’s visit, the atmosphere seemed different, with a significant absence of cheering onlookers, most of whom were tourists. French TV networks managed to locate a handful of devoted fans of the Windsors at each stop on the tour, but public enthusiasm, in general, appeared to be muted.
Veteran French royal-watcher Stéphane Bern commented on this change, noting that state visits have become more commonplace in recent times and no longer draw large crowds. The world has indeed evolved since 1938, and the omnipresence of famous figures through television and social media may have contributed to a sense of indifference among the French public.King Charles III’s state visit to France, despite the subdued public reception, signifies the enduring diplomatic relationship between the United Kingdom and France. The visit included meetings with French President and other dignitaries, showcasing the continued importance of collaboration and cooperation between the two nations on various fronts, including trade, security, and cultural exchanges.
As the world continues to change and evolve, so too do the dynamics of public reactions to royal visits. While the French public’s reception may have been more understated than in years past, the visit remains a testament to the enduring ties between these neighboring countries and the evolving nature of public engagement with royalty in the modern era.
Resources:
1.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-66882105
3.https://newstral.com/en/article/en/1244048999/king-charles-gets-standing-ovation-in-france
4.https://newstral.com/en/article/en/1244048999/king-charles-gets-standing-ovation-in-france
5.https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1814954/King-Charles-versailles-speech-france-tour